The Krossa Regal Hosta is known for its impressive size. But just how tall can it get? This shade-loving perennial has captured the hearts of gardeners with its blue-green foliage and tall flower spikes. Let's explore the secrets behind its growth and how it can change your landscape.
Introduction to Krossa Regal Hosta
The Krossa Regal Hosta is a standout in the Asparagaceae family, known for its large size and eye-catching blue-green leaves. It's a mix of the Hosta nigrescens species, growing up to 6 feet tall and wide. This deciduous perennial has a unique vase shape, thick leaves, and blooms with lavender flowers in mid to late summer.
This plant is both versatile and beloved, reaching 3 to 5 feet in height and width. It takes 2 to 5 years to fully grow, making it a long-term addition to your garden. Its frosty blue leaves are slug-resistant and add a unique look to any shade garden.
The Krossa Regal Hosta is highly valued in gardening circles, having won several top awards. In 1988, it was the second most popular plant in polls by The American Hosta Society. It also received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit in the UK. In 2001, it was given the Alex J. Summers Distinguished Merit Hosta Award, proving its excellence among shade perennials.
| Characteristic | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 90 - 150 cm (3 - 5 ft) |
| Spread | 90 - 150 cm (3 - 5 ft) |
| Time to Full Growth | 2 to 5 years |
| Flower Color | Medium Lavender |
| Flower Shape | Funnel-shaped |
| Flower Scape Height | 3 to 5 feet |
| Foliage Color | Frosty Blue |
| Foliage Habit | Vase-shaped, Slug-resistant |
| Seed Production | None |
| Awards | Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit, Alex J. Summers Distinguished Merit Hosta Award |
| Popularity Ranking | No. 2 in 1988 American Hosta Society Polls |
Growth Habits
The Krossa Regal Hosta stands out with its unique, upright shape. Unlike many hostas, it grows tall and wide, making a big impact in gardens. It can get up to 3 feet tall and spread 3-6 feet wide, dominating the garden.
Its leaves are smooth, thick, and have wide veins. They turn a frosty blue-green to gray-blue color. The leaves also have wavy edges, sharp tips, and rounded lobes. In mid to late summer, it blooms with lavender flowers that rise 5-6 feet high, adding beauty to the garden.
This hosta thrives in USDA Zones 3-8, making it perfect for many climates. Its striking looks and growth make it a favorite for gardeners. They choose it for its bold, eye-catching presence in shaded areas.
| Characteristic | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Mature Height | 3 feet |
| Mature Spread | 3-6 feet |
| Flower Color | Lavender |
| Flower Bloom Time | Mid-summer (July-August) |
| Scape Height | 5-6 feet |
| Leaf Color | Frosty blue-green to gray-blue |
| Leaf Texture | Smooth, thick, and widely-veined |
| Leaf Margin | Slightly wavy |
| Leaf Tip | Cuspidate |
| Leaf Lobe | Rounded |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3-8 |
Cultural Requirements
Krossa Regal Hostas love to grow in the shade, especially in places with some morning sun. They do best in soil that's rich in organic matter and drains well. The ideal soil pH is between 5.8 and 6.5. These plants can handle some dry shade but need consistent moisture to grow big and healthy.
For Krossa Regal Hostas, a cold period of 10-12 weeks is necessary to wake them up in spring. This cold period helps them grow well in the shade.
These plants prefer temperatures above 60°F and should stay above freezing. They need a soil with the right conductivity, which you can check with a special method. To help them grow, give them a light dose of fertilizer in early spring. Or, you can use a slow-release fertilizer instead.
- Soil pH range: 5.8-6.5
- Vernalization period: 10-12 weeks below 40°F
- Fertility requirements: Light application of liquid fertilizer (20-10-20 with 50 ppm nitrogen) in early spring, or use slow-release fertilizer
Krossa Regal Hostas can be bothered by pests like aphids, spider mites, and slugs. If you're growing them in pots, use a mix that drains well. Make sure to water them right, letting the soil dry a bit between waterings.
For the best growth, Krossa Regal Hostas need long days. If they're in pots, cover them with shade cloth to protect them from too much sun. You can also overwinter them in a cold frame or a heated greenhouse.
Krossa Regal Hosta
The Krossa Regal Hosta is a standout in gardens, known for its large size and beautiful blue-green leaves. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide, with a unique, vase-shaped look. This adds beauty and texture to shaded areas.
The leaves of the Krossa Regal Hosta are smooth, thick, and have a unique blue-green color. They have wavy edges and pointed tips, giving them an elegant look. In summer, it blooms with beautiful lavender flowers that reach up to 5-6 feet high. These flowers attract hummingbirds and add color to the garden.
This hosta is easy to care for and resists slugs and snails well. It grows slowly and reaches 24-36 inches tall and 4-6 feet wide. It's perfect for many garden uses, from eye-catching plants to beautiful groundcover in the shade.
| Krossa Regal Hosta Features | Hosta Plant Characteristics | Shade Perennial Attributes |
|---|---|---|
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Care and Maintenance
Krossa Regal Hostas need some care to thrive. These shade-loving plants are easy to look after. But, following a few key practices will keep them healthy and vibrant.
Plant Krossa Regal Hostas in soil that drains well and is rich in organic matter. Keep the soil moist, especially when the plants are growing. Divide them every 3-4 years in early spring to keep them healthy and full.
Removing the flower stalks after they bloom can make the plant look better. But, it's not a must-do. It's crucial to protect the plants from slugs and snails. These pests can really harm the leaves.
Krossa Regal Hostas can grow quite tall, from 6 to 48 inches, and spread 1 to 8 feet wide. They bloom in summer, showing off purple or white flowers. These plants do well in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9.
With the right Krossa Regal Hosta care, regular hosta plant maintenance, and protection from pests, gardeners can enjoy these beautiful plants for many years.
Landscape Uses
The Krossa Regal Hosta is perfect for shade gardens, woodland gardens, and shady borders. Its big size and upright shape make it stand out or fill in the background. The blue-green leaves contrast well with other shade plants, and the lavender flowers add color in summer.
These hostas are great in groups or alone. They thrive in heavy shade and like moist soil. This makes them a dependable choice for tough garden spots.
Gardeners can use Krossa Regal Hostas to anchor flower beds or create lush backdrops. They pair well with azaleas and ferns for a woodland look. For brightening deep shade, try the gold and variegated hostas.
These hostas work well in containers or along pathways. By choosing different hosta types for their looks and growth, gardeners can make beautiful shade gardens. This shows off the unique qualities of this popular perennial.
