Humpback Whale - Hosta

‘Humpback Whale’ is a very large hosta with thick, deeply corrugated, heart-shaped leaves that emerge blue and mature to blue-green. Near-white bell-shaped flowers rise on tall scapes in early summer, while the broad clump makes a strong focal point in a shaded bed. [Walters Gardens](https://www.waltersgardens.com/variety.php?ID=HSHBW) and [NH Hostas](https://nhhostas.com/collections/green-hosta/products/humpback-whale-hosta) describe the cultivar’s foliage, flowers, and mature scale. ## Cultivar character Walters Gardens lists breeder Mildred Seaver and a mature height of about 3 feet, spread of about 7 feet, and flower scapes near 4 feet. The source gives USDA zones 3–9 and notes the leaves are bluest in spring. ## Garden conditions Use it as an anchor or specimen where the mature width has room to develop. Part to full shade protects the blue foliage, and evenly moist soil supports large leaves; avoid waterlogged ground. Hostas generally perform best in shade with regular moisture and organic matter. ## Maintenance Water deeply during establishment and dry spells, since severe drought can reduce leaf size or cause early dormancy. Remove dead foliage after frost and divide only if the clump becomes too large for its site. Check for slugs and snails, and protect young leaves from browsing when deer are common. Iowa State Extension summarizes hosta care and common pests in its [hosta guide](https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/all-about-hostas).