Hosta 'Big Daddy' (Plantain lily)

3 bulbs
£8.89
£2.96 each
6 bulbs
£15.89
£2.65 each
Save 11%

Order today, Receive in February

Free delivery on UK orders over £50

Carbon-Neutral Delivery

Our "Bloom or Bust" Promise

‘Big Daddy’ is loved for its thick, heavily puckered leaves, which can be more slug-resistant than thinner-leaved hostas. The blue-grey foliage is at its best when grown in cool, shady conditions.

Hosta ‘Big Daddy’ is a statement perennial for shade, grown for its huge, blue-grey, heavily puckered leaves that form a dramatic mound in borders and large containers, bringing texture and calm structure all season.

A clump-forming plant, it can reach around 60cm high (and larger in time) with a substantial spread, making it ideal as a focal point in shady beds. In early summer it produces stems of pale, bell-shaped flowers.

Plant in partial shade in moisture-retentive, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Hostas prefer cool roots and benefit from shelter from hot afternoon sun to keep foliage looking its best.

Water regularly during dry weather, particularly in pots, and mulch in spring to conserve moisture. Protect new shoots from slugs and snails, and remove spent flower stems for a tidy finish.

Perfect for woodland borders, shady courtyards and container displays, ‘Big Daddy’ pairs beautifully with ferns, brunnera and hellebores, and provides bold foliage contrast alongside finer-textured plants.

Botanical name Hosta 'Big Daddy' (sieboldiana hybrid)
Flower colour Greyish-white
Tuber size Grade I (Top Size)
Established height 60–100 cm
Established spread 100 cm
Plant spacing 1 per m²
Leaf colour Green
Habit Clump-forming
Life cycle Perennial
Hardiness Fully hardy
Years to establish 1st year
Sunlight Full sun, Partial shade
Position Exposed or Sheltered
Suitable for Pots, Borders, Cutting garden
Soil acidity Any
Soil moisture Moist but well-drained
Soil type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
RHS Award (AGM) No
Growing skill Easy to grow
Pollinator-friendly Yes
Deer resistant No

Where to Plant:

Hosta 'Big Daddy' prefers partial shade or dappled light in soil that holds moisture but drains well. It’s ideal for woodland borders and large pots where the foliage can be enjoyed at close range.

How to Plant:

Plant in spring (or early autumn in mild areas). Set the crown at soil level, firm in and water thoroughly. Allow plenty of space—around 75–100cm—so the clump can reach its mature size.

Aftercare:

Keep evenly moist, especially in the first season and in containers. Mulch annually with compost, protect emerging shoots from slugs, and cut back spent flower stems after flowering for a neat finish.

Planting and Flowering Calendar

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Planting
Flowering

Key Features

Packed in paper

Packed peat-free

Great for Shade

RHS Award (AGM)

Perfect for pots

£8.89

The Finest Bulbs

We partner with elite growers to provide only top-size, professional-grade bulbs. Bigger bulbs mean stronger roots and more spectacular blooms.

A Greener Thumb

We are committed to a healthier planet, using sustainable growing practices and mindfully chosen, recyclable packaging.

An Unrivaled Selection

Discover an extensive collection of both timeless classics and rare, exclusive varieties to create a garden that is uniquely yours.

Our Bloom Guarantee

We stand behind our quality. From our expert planting guides to our customer service, we ensure your gardening success.

Kind Words from Our Gardeners