Hosta 'Brother Stefan' is a showstopping variety that combines bold texture, dramatic coloring, and garden-tough durability. Widely celebrated among hosta enthusiasts, this cultivar features large, heavily corrugated leaves with striking golden centers and wide, irregular blue-green margins. The thick substance of the foliage makes it more resistant to slug damage, and its vibrant coloring stands out beautifully in shaded or woodland gardens. As it matures, 'Brother Stefan' forms a broad, impressive clump that adds both structure and color contrast to shady areas.
Key Features:
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Foliage: Large, heart-shaped leaves with deep corrugation; bright gold centers framed by wide, blue-green margins. The color becomes more intense as the season progresses.
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Mature Size: Grows 20–22 inches tall and spreads 36–48 inches wide. Makes a bold, eye-catching mound.
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Flowers: Pale lavender to near-white blooms appear on 30-inch scapes in early to mid-summer.
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Light Requirements: Thrives in part to full shade. Some morning sun can enhance color without harming the foliage.
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Soil: Prefers moist, well-draining, organically rich soil. Mulching helps retain soil moisture.
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Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 3–9.
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Maintenance: Low-maintenance. Thick leaves are slug-resistant. Divide every few years if desired.
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Uses: Ideal as a specimen in shade gardens, borders, or under trees. Excellent for pairing with finer-textured plants like ferns or grasses for contrast.
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Awards & Recognition: Named Hosta of the Year in 2017 by the American Hosta Growers Association for outstanding performance and appearance.