Hosta 'Humpback Whale' is a massive blue hosta with arching heart shaped leaves that reach monumental proportions, forming a cascading mound that resembles the curve of a whale’s back. Its thick seersuckered foliage has a chalky blue coating early in the season maturing to powdery green by midsummer. This cultivar is known for its size, vigor, and presence in the shade garden serving as a dramatic focal point or architectural anchor.
Height & Spread: 36 in x 70 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil rich in organic matter
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Low; foliage is highly palatable to deer
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from hybrids of Hosta species native to East Asia. It is not native to North America but is widely cultivated in temperate gardens.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- The pale lavender flowers are a nectar source for bumblebees and small carpenter bees during mid to late summer.
Hummingbirds
- Hosta blooms are visited by Ruby Throated Hummingbirds especially when grown in groupings near woodland edges.
Beneficial Insects
- The thick foliage offers daytime refuge for ground beetles and predatory rove beetles that help control soil dwelling pests.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Due to its mature size, space at least 60 - 72 in from center to center to allow full mound formation.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal as a specimen plant in shaded beds, along woodland paths, or under trees where its architectural form can be appreciated up close.
Companion Plants
- Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' (Variegated Solomons Seal) - Tall arching stems and creamy variegation echo the elegant form of large hostas.
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Silver veined foliage provides brilliant contrast to the blue green leaves of 'Humpback Whale'.
- Pulmonaria 'Raspberry Splash' - Bright spotted foliage and early blooms complement the color and texture of hosta mounds.
- Hosta 'Blue Mouse Ears' - Miniature blue hosta pairs humorously with its giant cousin for a whimsical touch.
- Ferns (Various) - Ferns offer vertical texture and thrive in the same shaded, moist soil as large hostas.