Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd': Deeply Cupped Blue Leaves Hold Water

Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd': The Cupped Blue Hosta That Holds Rain

Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd', hybridized by Walden-West and introduced in 1989, is famous for its deeply cupped, heavily corrugated blue leaves that literally hold water—like drinking gourds. This extreme cupping, combined with intense blue color, makes it a sculptural marvel.

Deeply Cupped Sculptural Leaves

The leaves are large, 10–12 inches long, broadly ovate, intensely blue, and deeply cupped—so much so that they hold a significant volume of rainwater. The corrugation is heavy, the substance thick. The plant forms a mound 2 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide. Near-white flowers on tall scapes in early summer.

Extreme Cupping

The cupping of 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd' is among the most extreme in the genus. It creates a sculptural, architectural quality. The blue color is intense and persistent. Hardy in USDA zones 3–9. Prefers deep shade. The water-holding leaves are a delight after rain.

Taxonomic Profile

• Family: Liliaceae
• Genus: Hosta
• Cultivar: 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd'
• Hybridizer: Walden-West
• Introduced: 1989

Sculptural Blue Marvel

'Abiqua Drinking Gourd' is living sculpture. The cupped leaves catch light, hold water, and create shadow patterns. Use as a specimen, near water features, or where its architectural form can be appreciated. A hosta that turns foliage into functional art.