Hosta 'Blue Umbrellas' is a bold large leaved cultivar prized for its substantial blue green foliage that arches gracefully like an open parasol. It creates an architectural presence in shady gardens with its broad leaves that develop a powdery blue wax coating early in the season. Pale lavender flowers appear on tall scapes in mid to late summer attracting pollinators above the dense foliage mound.
Height & Spread: 30 - 36 in x 48 - 60 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, rich, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate to high; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Not deer resistant; protect from browsing
Native Status
Hosta 'Blue Umbrellas' is a cultivated variety derived from Asian species such as Hosta sieboldiana. While not native to North America, it is widely grown in temperate shade gardens for foliage impact.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- The pale lavender blooms attract bumblebees and other long tongued native bees seeking mid to late season nectar in shaded environments.
Birds
- Foliage clumps provide cover for ground foraging birds such as robins and sparrows and help maintain moisture for insects they feed on.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 36 - 48 in apart to allow mature spread and visual impact in shade beds or as a specimen plant.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for foundation plantings, shaded borders, woodland gardens, or under deciduous trees where large foliage can shine.
Companion Plants
- Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' (Variegated Solomons Seal) - Graceful arching stems and variegated foliage echo the form of hosta while brightening shady spots.
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Silver veined leaves and light blue spring flowers provide striking contrast to hosta foliage.
- Pulmonaria 'Raspberry Splash' - Speckled leaves and bright pink blooms accent the cool tones of 'Blue Umbrellas'.
- Astilbe chinensis 'Visions' - Feathery pink plumes and bronze green foliage add vertical contrast and late summer interest.
- Ferns - Add texture and movement while thriving in similar moist shady conditions.