A Spectacular Breakthrough for the Floral-Focused Shade Garden
A true breeding pinnacle from the world-renowned Tony Avent at Plant Delights Nursery, Hosta 'Branching Out' represents a revolutionary shift in the genus by focusing on floral architecture. Introduced in 2015 after 16 years of meticulous development, this complex hybrid — involving Hosta 'Korean Snow', 'Maekawa', 'Elvis Lives', and 'Pewterware' — reimagines the hosta's role in the garden. Whether you are gardening in the humid valleys of Ontario or the crisp landscapes of the Maritimes, its unique ability to produce branched flower scapes makes it an unparalleled standout for those who value more than just foliage.
Why It Stands Out
-
Extraordinary Branching Habit: Unlike standard varieties, its sturdy 76 cm flower scapes are reliably branched four ways, creating a candelabra of pale lavender blooms in late summer.
-
Lustrous Foliage Detail: The glossy, dark green leaves feature a beautifully ruffled margin and a very shiny surface that reflects the dappled light of the forest floor.
-
Impeccable Floral Substance: The flowers are held upright on incredibly sturdy stems, ensuring the dramatic display doesn't collapse under its own weight during heavy August rains.
-
Architectural Symmetry: Forming a tight, 76 cm wide mound, its clean lines and rich green tones serve as a sophisticated anchor in any perennial border.
Technical Specs
| Feature |
Specification |
| Size (H × W) |
30.5 cm × 76.2 cm (12″ × 30″) |
| Hardiness Zone |
Canadian Zones 3–9 |
| Colour |
Glossy, ruffled dark green |
| Light Requirements |
Light shade to part sun |
Grower's Tip
To fully appreciate the branching effect, plant this variety in a spot where the 76 cm tall flower spikes can rise above smaller neighbours without obstruction. Because we are committed to our True to Type mandate, we wait until we observe the sturdy, multi-branched scape development in our Bécancour trial beds to ensure your division is ready to deliver its signature floral show.
