A Bold 20-Foot Rule Cultivar With a Shiny Dark Grey-Green Centre and Wide Yellow Margin
G. R. Goodwin registered Hosta 'Battle Star' in 2006 as a sport of a splashed seedling of unknown parentage. This large cultivar produces broadly ovate, deeply cupped leaves in a striking dark grey-green, each framed by a 1.3–2.5 cm (0.5–1") wide yellow margin with a slightly rippled edge. The leaf surface is very shiny on top — a rare trait that makes it a standout even at a distance, a classic demonstration of the "20-foot rule." Clumps grow to 38.1 cm (15") tall and 91.4 cm (36") wide at a moderate pace. Canadian gardeners from Zone 3 through 9 will find it a commanding and rewarding long-term specimen.
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The 20-foot rule in action: The strong contrast between the dark grey-green centre and wide yellow margin makes 'Battle Star' identifiable and impactful from across the garden.
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Very shiny leaf surface: A high-gloss finish on top — rare among large hostas — catches dappled light beautifully and adds depth to shaded borders.
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Wide yellow margins: Margins reach 1.3–2.5 cm (0.5–1") wide with a slightly rippled edge, providing bold contrast against the dark grey-green central blade.
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Deeply cupped and corrugated: Broadly ovate leaves with a cordate base, deep cupping, and moderate corrugation give the clump a strong sculptural presence.
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Lavender striped blooms: Medium lavender flowers with dark lavender stripes rise on green scapes 61.0–66.0 cm (24–26") tall from late June through mid-July.
| Feature |
Specification |
| Size (H × W) |
38.1 cm × 91.4 cm (15" × 36") |
| Hardiness Zone |
3–9 |
| Colour |
Dark grey-green with yellow margins; very shiny |
| Light Requirements |
Partial to full shade |
Grower's Tip: 'Battle Star' handles Canadian winters with ease from Zone 3 through 9, and its very shiny leaf surface looks especially striking in the lower-angle light of a Canadian spring morning. We grow it at our nursery in Bécancour, QC, where its bold grey-green and yellow contrast makes it one of the most identifiable hostas in our collection. Our True to Type standard means you receive the authentic G. R. Goodwin selection — verified before it leaves Bécancour.
