H. ‘The Gambler’

Overview

Registered in 2014 by M. Zilis, this medium-sized cultivar is a very golden yellow sport of *Hosta* 'Tropicana'. It is visually distinctive for its blue-green leaves with broad, flat gold margins that transition from pale green to bright golden yellow.

In the Garden

'The Gambler' forms a moderate-growing, mound-like clump reaching 19 inches (48.3 cm) in height and 40 inches (101.6 cm) in diameter. Its ovate leaves, measuring 9 inches (22.9 cm) long by 7 inches (17.8 cm) wide, feature 10 to 12 vein pairs, a dull upper surface, and a glaucous bloom underneath. The moderately wavy, lightly corrugated foliage has rounded bases and pale green margins that turn golden yellow. This cultivar performs best in partial to dappled shade, typical for variegated hostas, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade perennials. Its medium size makes it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in woodland gardens.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, especially in the first growing season. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage and benefits from protective measures in areas where these pests are prevalent.