A Thick-Leaved Fortress of Intense Frosty Blue and Gold leaves
A world-class introduction from the Dutch hybridizers Marco Fransen and Paul Vernooij, Hosta 'Ben Vernooij' is a breathtaking sport of 'First Frost'. This medium-sized cultivar has rapidly become a legendary favourite across Canada, from the rainy valleys of BC to the rugged coast of Newfoundland, due to its nearly indestructible leaf substance. The foliage is a masterclass in contrast: intensely blue-grey centres are framed by exceptionally wide, butter-yellow margins that transition to a crisp, creamy white by mid-summer. Its architectural form and luminous colour palette make it a premier focal point that refuses to be ignored in any shaded sanctuary.
Why It Stands Out
-
Unrivalled Leaf Substance: Features some of the thickest leaves in the hosta world, providing elite resistance to slugs and the unpredictable Canadian elements.
-
Dramatic Wide Margins: The expansive, high-contrast borders remain sharp and vibrant from the spring thaw until the first hard frost.
-
Frost-Resistant Heritage: Inheriting the 'First Frost' genes, this variety stays looking pristine and colourful long after other hostas have begun to go dormant.
-
Intense Blue Saturation: The deep, waxy blue-grey core provides a powerful, cooling backdrop for the glowing yellow edges.
Technical Specifications
| Feature |
Details |
| Size (Height) |
40–50 cm (16–20 inches) |
| Size (Width) |
70–90 cm (28–35 inches) |
| Hardiness Zone |
Canadian Zones 3–9 |
| Colour |
Blue-grey centre with wide yellow to white margins |
| Light Requirements |
Partial Shade to Full Shade |
Grower's Tip
To truly see the "neon" glow of the yellow margins, plant 'Ben Vernooij' in a spot that receives bright, filtered light or gentle morning sun. Because we are committed to providing the highest quality specimens, our Bécancour team waits for the heavy, rubbery leaves to fully unfurl in our Quebec fields to verify each plant is True to Type before shipping. This meticulous verification ensures that the incredible substance and specific colour-blocking this variety is famous for are perfectly established before the plant reaches your garden.
