Gemstone - Hosta

Gemstone is a Hosta cultivar introduced by Tony Avent in 2005. It forms a compact clump of narrow blue-green leaves, with pale lavender flowers on short stems in midsummer; its modest scale suits the front of a shaded border ([MyHostas cultivar record](https://myhostas.be/db/view/Gemstone); [NH Hostas](https://nhhostas.com/products/gemstone-hosta)). ## Garden Use The blue-green foliage provides a cool-toned accent among shade perennials. Use small clumps to edge a woodland bed, a shaded border, or the front of a larger Hosta planting. The cultivar’s reported parentage is Hosta venusta × Hosta ‘Dorset Blue’; the [American Hosta Society classification](https://www.hostalibrary.org/ClassificationFull.pdf) lists Gemstone as a registered variety with blue-green leaves. ## Growing Conditions Grow in bright to partial shade with regular moisture and rich, well-drained soil. Hostas perform best when soil stays moist but not waterlogged, and their leaves can scorch in hot, dry exposure. One grower lists Gemstone for USDA Zone 3a; good drainage remains important in cool sites ([Secret Garden Growers](https://secretgardengrowers.com/products/hosta-gemstone); [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/hosta/)). ## Maintenance Water during dry periods, especially beneath trees where roots compete for moisture. Watch leaves for slug or snail damage. Divide established clumps in early spring as shoots emerge when propagation or renewal is desired, and remove spent flower stalks after bloom for a tidy appearance ([Iowa State University Extension](https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/all-about-hostas)).