Hosta 'Big Daddy' forms large mounds and sends up pale lavender flowers on tall scapes, adding vertical interest to its already substantial base.
Height & Spread: 24 - 28 in x 36 - 48 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Rich, moist, well drained soil with high organic matter
Watering Needs: Moderate; benefits from consistent watering in dry periods
Deer Resistance: Low
Native Status
Not native to North America. This cultivar is derived from hosta species originally native to Japan and China, and is widely used in ornamental shade gardens worldwide.
Wildlife & Insects
Bees
- Attracts native bees and honeybees with its tall midsummer flowers that provide accessible nectar.
Hummingbirds
- Ruby Throated Hummingbirds may visit the blooms, especially during early morning foraging.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 36 - 48 in apart to accommodate mature size and ensure room for the large mounding habit.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent as a specimen in shade gardens, along woodland edges, or as a focal point in foundation beds and large containers.
Companion Plants
- Aruncus dioicus (Goat's Beard) - Tall, airy white blooms offer vertical contrast and bloom in similar shade conditions.
- Heuchera 'Berry Smoothie' (Coral Bells) - Adds vivid pink foliage that contrasts with the hosta’s powdery blue leaves.
- Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Provides soft spring blooms and ground hugging foliage to complement the hosta’s bulk.
- Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas Fern) - Evergreen fronds create year round texture beside the bold hosta mound.
- Ligularia dentata 'Othello' (Leopard Plant) - Deep green foliage and bold yellow flowers pair well with the hosta’s rugged look and share its preference for moist shade.