Abiqua Drinking Gourd Hosta

Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd'

Nature Hills Nursery

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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Planting & Care

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.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

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

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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!

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Growing Zones 3-8

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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.