Jan 22, 2010

Association Announces Hosta of the YearSource: The Hosta Patch

The American Hosta Growers Association has chosen one standout hosta every year since 1996 to be its Hosta of the Year. These plants are distinctive, grow well in all of its adaptable growing zones and be readily available.

This year’s selection is ‘First Frost’, characterized by its thick substance and intense blue-green leaves, with yellow margins that fade to pure white. Mature plants can grow to 16 inches high by 36 inches wide, with leaves that are 7 inches long by 5 inches wide. In early fall, the plant grows dense clusters of pale purple flowers as tall as 22 inches.

The AHGA is an organization for nurseries that specialize in the growing and sale of hostas. Its purpose is to foster interest in hostas through marketing and educational programs, disseminate information on cultural practices and pest problems of hostas, and help standardize hosta nomenclature. For more information, including a list of past Hosta of the Year selections, visit www.hostagrowers.org.