A Luminous Masterpiece of Waxy Azure Perfection
Bob Solberg of Green Hill Farm registered Hosta 'Barbara May' in 2004. He developed it from a complex cross involving H. pycnophylla, 'Harvest Dandy', 'Blue Arrow', and 'Sea Fire'. The leaves emerge in a brilliant bright blue with a thick, frosty white wax coating on both surfaces. An almost triangular leaf shape and delicately ruffled margins create a rhythmic, textured appearance in dappled shade. It suits Canadian zones 3–9 and works beautifully as a mid-border specimen.
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Leaf Shape and Texture: Almost triangular with delicately ruffled margins and strong veining — thick leaf substance adds rugged durability across the full range of Canadian growing conditions.
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Leaf Colour: Brilliant bright blue with a heavy frosty white wax coating on both leaf surfaces — a luminous, glowing effect that persists longer than many other blue cultivars through summer heat.
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Mature Size: 34 cm high × 82 cm wide (13 in × 32 in) — a medium mound that works beautifully as a mid-border specimen in dappled shade.
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Flowers: Pale lavender blooms on slender scapes in midsummer, rising cleanly above the distinctive triangular foliage.
| Feature |
Specification |
| Size (H × W) |
34 cm × 82 cm (13" × 32") |
| Hardiness Zone |
3–9 |
| Colour |
Intense blue with abundant white wax |
| Light Requirements |
Partial to full shade |
Grower's Tip: Hosta 'Barbara May' handles Canadian winters reliably from Zone 3 through 9. Plant in a spot with good air circulation and protection from harsh overhead watering, which can prematurely wear away the stunning waxy coating. We grow it at our nursery in Bécancour, QC, and our True to Type standard means you receive the authentic 'Barbara May' with confirmed triangular leaves and ruffled edges, verified before it leaves Bécancour.
