Hosta Grand Slam Acorus (aka: Dryopteris cystolepidota) Dryopteris nipponensis

(aka: Dryopteris cystolepidota) Dryopteris nipponensis is a cousin of the better-known autumn fern

the clumps are topped with 2' spikes of very fragrant

well-drained site is needed

linear white bands

leaf by leaf

Hosta Grand Slam Acorus (aka: Dryopteris cystolepidota) Dryopteris nipponensisThis introduction from the late Herb Benedict and his friend Hideko Gowen is probably a hybrid with H. pycnophylla or a similar species. The 2' diameter clump is composed of leathery, glossy, dark green leaves. With age, each leaf is edged with very dramatic waving. In early fall, the clump is topped with 20" spikes of lavender flowers. At least this one won't have an asterisk in the record books for "substance" abuse.