A Frosted Blue Masterpiece with Silvery Arctic Undersides
Hosta 'Arctic Blast' is a breathtaking specimen that brings a touch of the high north to any Canadian garden. Registered in 2019 by Monty and Julie Carlson, this large, architectural variety is a sophisticated cross between the towering Hosta 'Komodo Dragon' and the elegantly rippled Hosta 'Elvis Lives'. It is immediately distinguished by its upright, vase-like habit and thick, pointed leaves that emerge in a cool, frosted blue with dramatic, wavy margins. The real showstopper, however, is the brilliant white (glaucous) coating on the leaf undersides, which flashes as the twisted tips catch the breeze—an effect that mimics the icy shimmer of a winter landscape even in the height of a July heatwave.
Why It Stands Out
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Vase-Like Silhouette: The upright, vase-shaped growth habit adds essential vertical structure and elegance to shaded borders or focal points.
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Dramatic White Undersides: Its thick, icy-blue foliage features curious silvery-white undersides that contrast beautifully with the dark green of neighboring plants.
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Intense Rippling & Twisted Tips: Heavily rippled margins and characteristic twisted leaf tips provide a level of textural detail that is rare in large blue varieties.
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Exceptional Durability: Inheriting "heavy substance" from its parentage, the foliage is remarkably resilient and maintains its frosty colour well into the season across various Canadian zones.
Technical Specs
| Feature |
Details |
| Size |
50 cm Height / 110 cm Spread (20" H / 43" W) |
| Hardiness Zone |
Standard Canadian Zones 3–8 |
| Colour |
Frosted blue-green with distinctive white undersides |
| Light Requirements |
Partial Shade to Full Shade |
Grower's Tip
To preserve the waxy "frost" that gives Hosta 'Arctic Blast' its name, we recommend a location with bright, indirect light rather than direct afternoon sun, which can melt away the blue bloom. We are particularly vigilant with this variety at our Bécancour nursery; we wait for the first spring flush to fully expand so we can verify the signature twisting of the tips and the purity of the blue colour. This True to Type verification is our guarantee that you are receiving a healthy, vigorous plant that represents the very best of Monty Carlson's modern breeding.
