Hosta ‘Abiqua Drinking Gourd’

from $16.00

PRE-ORDER: Ships approximately mid-April 2026

Hosta ‘Abiqua Drinking Gourd’ is a sculptural, blue-gray hosta prized for its deeply cupped, heavily corrugated leaves that hold water like little vessels after rain. Thick substance gives the foliage exceptional texture and slug resistance, while its rounded form creates a calm, architectural anchor in shaded borders and woodland gardens. In summer, pale white flowers rise above the foliage, but it is the dramatic leaf structure that makes this variety unforgettable.

Your bare root plant will ship once our spring inventory arrives (expected early April). We carefully inspect and prepare each order prior to shipping to ensure strong, healthy plants. Orders ship in the order received. Because this is a pre-order item, shipping dates are estimates and may shift slightly based on supplier timing.

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PRE-ORDER: Ships approximately mid-April 2026

Hosta ‘Abiqua Drinking Gourd’ is a sculptural, blue-gray hosta prized for its deeply cupped, heavily corrugated leaves that hold water like little vessels after rain. Thick substance gives the foliage exceptional texture and slug resistance, while its rounded form creates a calm, architectural anchor in shaded borders and woodland gardens. In summer, pale white flowers rise above the foliage, but it is the dramatic leaf structure that makes this variety unforgettable.

Your bare root plant will ship once our spring inventory arrives (expected early April). We carefully inspect and prepare each order prior to shipping to ensure strong, healthy plants. Orders ship in the order received. Because this is a pre-order item, shipping dates are estimates and may shift slightly based on supplier timing.

Planting & Care

USDA Hardiness Zones

Zones 3–8

Light

Part shade to full shade
(Morning sun is tolerated, but protect from harsh afternoon sun for best leaf quality.)

Mature Size

Height: 18–22 inches
Width: 30–36 inches

Forms a broad, architectural mound over time.

Spacing

30–36 inches apart
(Plant closer for a lush massed woodland look.)

Planting Depth (Important)

Plant so the crown sits level with the soil surface.
Do not bury the crown deeply, as this can lead to rot and poor growth.

The growing tips should be just at or slightly below soil level.

Water Needs

Moderate to consistent.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Hostas prefer evenly moist soil, especially in warmer climates.

Garden Compatibility

Deer Resistance

Not deer resistant. Hostas are a known favorite. Protection may be necessary in areas with heavy deer pressure.

Rabbit Resistance

Young growth may be sampled, particularly in spring.

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Common Planting Mistakes

• Planting too deeply
• Allowing soil to dry excessively during establishment
• Too much direct afternoon sun (causes leaf scorch)
• Poor drainage leading to crown rot

What to Expect After Planting

Hosta ‘Abiqua Drinking Gourd’ emerges in mid-spring with tightly furled blue-gray leaves that gradually expand into deeply cupped, heavily corrugated foliage. It may appear modest in its first season while establishing roots, but expect fuller size and stronger leaf texture by year two.

This variety is grown primarily for its extraordinary architectural foliage. Once established, it becomes a long-lived, low-maintenance anchor for shaded borders and woodland gardens.

Shipping & Returns

Ships as a dormant bare-root plant during the appropriate seasonal window.

Bare roots are living plants in a dormant state and may not resemble potted nursery plants at time of arrival. Please review our Bare Root Plant FAQ before purchasing.