Plants that Work®

Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta

Name: Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta
Brand: Plants That Work
SKU: 20098
Price: 35.02 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.0 (4 reviews)

Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd'

Deeply Cupped Blue Leaves Collect Rainwater Like Nature's Own Drinking Vessels
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 3-8
Grows 1-2 ft Tall, 2-3 ft Wide
Showy White Blooms From Late Summer to Early Fall
Ideal for Mass Planting in Asian Gardens

$35⁰²

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Plant Size

#1 Container

Product variants

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Groundcover, Flowering, Wet Soils, Attracts Hummingbirds, Container Friendly
Hardiness Zone	3a to 9b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade, Shade
Height	1-2 ft
Width	2-3 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Peaty
Growth Rate	Slow
Growth Habit	Compact
Plant Life Cycle	Perennial
Blooms In	Fall, Summer
Flower Color	White
Foliage Color	Blue green, Green
Pet Safety	Toxic to pets
Suitable Space	Indoors, Outdoors
Plant Name	Hosta
Botanical Name	Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd'
Species	hybrid
Cultivar	Abiqua Drinking Gourd
Class	Asparagales
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Blue bowls of such unique texture and form that they will create the most intriguing appearance in your garden! Just absolutely sparkling after the rain, Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta (Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd') is a unique plant with raised, upwards curling leaves. Gorgeous blue foliage grows in all kinds of shade. Forming a loose, randomized pattern as the leaves reach upwards and outwards in every which way! The large leaves also curl upwards and catch the dew and the rain in each glaucous blue cup, hence the name.

The particular thing about these leaves is that they collect droplets and pools of water in the deeply cupped, extremely textured foliage. You will be amazed at the effect Abiqua has in the shade garden! Sculptural in form, it will add decorative embellishment to any style garden. The puckered foliage is heavily quilted and ornately textured. Brightening up dark corners and adorning your patio or balcony with showy abandon.

The showy white flowers rise 2 feet over the mounded clump in early summer and are a favorite among butterflies and hummingbirds. White bells dangle gracefully and just add to the show! Slower to reach its full size, but well worth the wait! Long flower stems are fantastic in large dramatic floral displays and they last and last as cut flowers beautifully, making it well worth the wait!

The dramatic foliage may look like a difficult diva, but Hosta are always easy to grow and low maintenance. They are a breeze to care for! Holding its amazing blue color, even in the hottest of weather! No wonder the American Hosta Growers Association named Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta the 2014 Hosta of the Year!

Planting and Application:

The amazing texture and extraordinary appeal of the Abiqua Drinking Guard add a phenomenal accent and specimen plant. Standing out as an impressive container plant that adds color and mysterious presence to your patios and fountains. For a truly unique spectacle, an en masse planting of Drinking Gourd Hosta will highlight woodland edges and shady swaths in curious greenery.

Loving the shade, Hosta are fantastic ringing trees and shrubs. Enjoying the shade while skirting bare stems in lush greenery without competing with root systems! Large planters are great for these perennials to keep the unique foliage close within view. The cool coloration and eye-catching growth will decorate garden rooms with sculptural decor.

Hosta are inspiring in Asian and Zen gardens. Create distinctive rows in both formal and contemporary plantings or rows that will accentuate the landscape. Adding an intriguing designer's touch everywhere! Butterfly gardens, rain gardens and your cottage gardens will get a non-traditional look with the addition of a few of these curious perennials! Fringe shady hardscapes and ring pergola or gazebos in cool, calming foliage.

Absolutely Gorgeous Blue Unique Bowl-Shaped Foliage Hold Water
White Flowers on 2 Foot Tall Scapes
Mounding & Random Growth
Attracts Hummingbirds & Pollinators
Xeriscaping and FireScaping Uses
Award-Winning Carefree & Low Maintenance

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Your Drinking Gourd Hosta's big blue-green leaves emerge in early spring and grow a bit disorderly. They just sparkle in the morning sun! Tolerant of dry shade, Hosta does best in filtered or dappled shade and part sun, tolerating the latter in cooler summer climates. Highly resistant to heat and humidity long as they're given adequate shade and moisture, especially throughout the hottest part of the growing season.

Tolerant of slightly acidic soils and even wet sites, Abiqua Drinking Gourds does best planted in deep fertile soil that has consistent moisture access. Though it's not particular on the type of soil, anything that is moist, well-drained. A generous layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture as well as insulate the root system from heat and chill.

Once frosts arrive, Hosta are herbaceous perennials that die back to the ground and emerge again in early spring. Be sure to remove dead leaf matter in the fall from the area to prevent the spread of fungal issues. With sturdy stems and tougher foliage, Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta has good slug resistance. Forming a tidy, mounded clump that spreads slowly.

Loves The Shade - Full to Part Shade
Extremely Cold Hardiness
Moisture Loving Plant
Humidity Tolerant
Sturdy & Slug Resistant Stems

For a truly unique addition to your landscape, you will love the curious features of Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta! We're certain no one else on the block will have one of these decorative plants in their gardens this year, so order your own from Nature Hills Nursery as soon they're in stock!

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Aim for a location that receives only 2 to 3 hours of gentle early morning sun or bright, filtered shade all day. Hot, direct afternoon sun is the enemy here; it will quickly "melt" the coveted blue wax coating on the leaves, turning them a less desirable greenish color, and can cause leaf scorch.
Soil: Hostas demand rich, loamy soil with excellent drainage. If you have heavy clay, incorporate a generous amount of well-aged compost and pine fines to lighten the structure, which is critical since the crowns will rot in perpetually soggy soil.

Watering Requirements

During the first season of establishment, ensure the plant receives consistent moisture, sometimes watering daily or every other day during dry spells to help roots spread. Once mature, 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd' needs about one inch of water per week, especially during the heat of summer, as it is not highly drought tolerant. Inconsistent watering will result in smaller leaf size and dry, browning leaf edges, stressing the plant and making it more susceptible to pests.

Pruning Tips

This plant is grown for its magnificent foliage, so pruning is simple maintenance. Once the light lavender flowers fade, cut the flower scapes (stalks) off at the base to redirect the plant’s energy back into creating a bigger crown and more leaves, and to prevent non-true seedlings. You can remove any yellowing or damaged leaves anytime; otherwise, cut all foliage back to the ground after the first hard frost when the leaves turn to mush.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, granular, slow-release fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, just as the new pips are emerging from the ground in early spring. Alternatively, a top dressing of well-rotted leaf mold or compost provides a slow feed all season long. What to avoid: Skip using a high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer late in the summer, as this encourages a final flush of tender, soft growth right before dormancy that will be vulnerable to winter kill.

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Leaf color

Abiqua Drinking Gourd hosta has such a unique leaf coloration. I love this hosta.

Hi Janice,

Thank you so much for sharing your appreciation for the Abiqua Drinking Gourd hosta! It truly does have striking leaf coloration that sets it apart in any garden with its airtight looking foliage and charming hues. We're thrilled to hear how much you love this unique hosta. If you ever want tips on care to keep those leaves vibrant and healthy, feel free to reach out—we’re always here to help your garden thrive.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Leaf color

Abiqua Drinking Gourd hosta has such a unique leaf coloration. I love this hosta.

Dear Janice,

Thank you so much for sharing your love for the Abiqua Drinking Gourd hosta! We’re delighted to hear that you appreciate its unique leaf coloration—it truly is a standout in the hosta family. If you’re looking to keep your hosta vibrant, make sure it enjoys partial to full shade along with consistently moist, well-draining soil. Mulching around the plant can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, which can enhance leaf color even more.

If you ever have questions about hosta care or want tips on companion plants to create beautiful shade gardens, don't hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to help your garden flourish!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

DRINKING GOURD HOSTA

THIS INFORMATION WAS HELPFUL . I HAVE HAD MY DRINKING GOURD PLANTS FOR 3 YRS. I LOVE THE WHITE FLOWER THAT IT PRODUCES. I AM THINKING I SHOULD DIVIDE THIS PLANT THIS FALL. ANY GREAT IDEA'S IN DIVIDING THESE PLANTS? THEY ARE SO BEAUTIFUL, I WOULD LOVE TO SHARE THEM. J.C.

Hello J.C.,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with your Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta! We’re delighted to hear that you love the beautiful white flowers—it’s such a charming feature of this variety. Three years with your plants sounds like a wonderful relationship already.

Dividing your hosta this fall is a great idea to help them stay healthy and to share their beauty with others. When the foliage begins to die back or turns yellow in the fall, that’s an ideal time to carefully dig up the plant. Use a sharp spade to divide the root clump into sections, making sure each division has steady roots and shoots. Replant each piece promptly with compost-enriched soil in a partly shaded spot with good drainage. Watering well after dividing will help the plants settle in smoothly.

If you’re looking for a detailed guide, we have a helpful blog post on divvying up hostas at NatureHills.com that includes step-by-step photos and tips. Please feel free to reach out if you have questions along the way—we’re happy to assist!

Happy divvying and sharing those lovely plants!

Verdantly yours,
Growing with you,
Nature Hills Nursery – Your Trusted Plant Specialists

DRINKING GOURD HOSTA

Dear J.C.,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta! We’re delighted to hear you've enjoyed those lovely white flowers for the past three years—they truly are a stunning addition to any shade garden. Dividing your hostas this fall is a wonderful idea to both rejuvenate the plant and share its beauty with friends or fellow gardeners.

For dividing, we suggest waiting until the plant starts to become crowded or when the foliage dies back after the first frost in the fall. Gently lift the entire clump with a garden fork or spade, taking care to keep the root ball intact. Then use a sharp knife or garden spade to divide the clump into sections, each with several healthy shoots and roots. Replant the new divisions at the same depth you found them and water thoroughly. Mulching after planting can help retain moisture and protect new roots during winter.

For more detailed guidance, you may find our Care Guides section helpful: it offers step-by-step info on hosta division and care to ensure your plants thrive for years to come.

We appreciate your commitment to nurturing these beautiful plants and are thrilled to support you on your gardening journey. Please feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or want more tips as you prepare to share your hostas’ charm.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta suitable for?

Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta thrives in USDA zones 3-9, making it suitable for most temperate climates. This hardy perennial maintains its striking blue color even in hot weather. Plant in partial to full shade for best foliage development and longevity.

What is the mature height and spread of Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta?

Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta reaches 18-24 inches tall and spreads 36-48 inches wide at maturity. This award-winning variety is slower growing than typical hostas but creates an impressive sculptural specimen. Allow 3-4 years for full size development when you shop at Nature Hills.

How often should I water Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta, and can it tolerate dry soil?

Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta prefers consistently moist soil and cannot tolerate drought conditions. Like most hostas, it thrives with regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, and mulch around the base to retain moisture.

Is Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta resistant to slugs and pests?

Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta has thicker, heavily textured leaves that are more resistant to slug damage than thin-leaved varieties. The deeply puckered, quilted foliage structure makes it harder for slugs to chew through. For best protection, apply organic slug deterrent around the base in spring when new growth emerges.

Can Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta tolerate partial sun in cooler climates?

Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta grows best in shade and holds its blue color even in hot weather. In cooler climates, it can handle some morning sun but avoid afternoon exposure which may fade the striking blue foliage. Shop at Nature Hills for this 2014 Hosta of the Year winner.

How do I prune or maintain the foliage of Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta?

Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta requires minimal pruning since it's naturally low maintenance. Simply remove spent flower stalks after blooming and cut back any damaged or yellowing leaves at the base. The deeply cupped foliage should be left intact to maintain its unique water-catching form.

Will Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta hold its blue-green color in hot summers?

Yes, Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta maintains its striking blue color even in hot weather. This award-winning variety is known for exceptional heat tolerance while preserving its distinctive glaucous blue foliage. Plant in partial to full shade for best results.

What is the shipping size or pot size for Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta plants?

Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta ships as a potted plant, though specific pot sizes vary by season and availability. This slower-growing cultivar takes time to reach its full mature size of 2+ feet tall and wide. Check the product page for current shipping specifications before ordering.

Is Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta guaranteed to arrive healthy, and what is the warranty?

Nature Hills guarantees all plants arrive healthy and ready to thrive in your garden. Their warranty covers plant health upon arrival, with replacement or refund for any damaged shipments. Contact customer service immediately if your Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta arrives in poor condition.

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta