Hosta 'Halcyon': The Standard for Intense Blue Hostas

Hosta 'Halcyon': The Benchmark Intense Blue Hosta

Hosta 'Halcyon' (also known as 'Holstein'), hybridized by Smith-BHHS and introduced in 1988, is widely considered the standard for intense, persistent blue color in a medium-sized hosta. Its waxy, powder-blue leaves hold their color exceptionally well, earning it a permanent place in the hosta pantheon.

Pure, Persistent Blue

The leaves are medium-large, 8–10 inches long, 6–8 inches wide, broadly ovate, with a thick, waxy, intense blue coating that repels water beautifully. The color holds deep into summer better than most blues. The plant forms a neat, symmetrical mound 1.5 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide. Pale lavender flowers on 2-foot scapes in early summer.

Tardiana Group Excellence

'Halcyon' is a member of the Hosta × tardiana group (hybrids of H. tardiflora and H. sieboldiana), known for superior blue color and substance. It's the benchmark against which other blue hostas are measured. Hardy in USDA zones 3–9. Prefers deep shade.

Taxonomic Profile

• Family: Liliaceae
• Genus: Hosta
• Cultivar: 'Halcyon' (syn. 'Holstein')
• Hybridizer: Smith-BHHS
• Introduced: 1988
• Synonym: Hosta × tardiana

Blue Reference Standard

'Halcyon' is the blue hosta by which others are judged. Its color intensity, persistence, and perfect form make it indispensable for breeders and gardeners alike. Use in mass for a blue sea, as a specimen, or combined with gold and variegated hostas. The gold standard of blue.