Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd' (Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta)


Botanical Information

FamilyAsparagaceae
GenusHosta
Cultivar'Abiqua Drinking Gourd'
CategoryPerennials
OriginWalden-West 1989. (H. 'Tokudama' x H. sieboldiana 'Elegans'.)

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone1a - 6a
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone0a - 5b
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-51 - (-21)
Temperature (°F)-60 - (-5)
Height50 cm
Spread90 cm
GrowthMedium

Description and Growing Information

ID CharacteristicLeaf cupping as deep as 10 cm.
PropagationPropagate through division of clumps, although clumps should be left undisturbed for at least 3 years in order to allow the leaves to reach maturity. Plant in spring or (in areas with milder winters) autumn, allowing the roots to soak overnight in a weak solution of liquid fertilizer first.
CultivationGrow in partial shade in any fertile soil that has been enriched with well-rotted organic manure. A pH of 6-7 is preferred, and a continuous supply of moisture is critical for optimum performance.
PestsSnails and slugs are the primary pests, and rabbits and deer may be a problem as well.
Notable SpecimensThe A.M. Cuddy Gardens, Strathroy, Ontario, Canada. Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington, Ontario, Canada.
HabitatHorticultural origin.
Leaf DescriptionThick, rich frosty dark blue-green, 21 x 21 cm.
Flower DescriptionTubular, lily-like, white, on an upright, leafy, 55 cm scape.

Photographs