H. ‘Aurora Borealis’

Overview

Registered in 1986 by Wayside Gardens, this giant sport of *Hosta* 'Frances Williams' is distinguished by its blue-green leaves with wide, irregular gold margins. The leaf blades reach 13 inches (33.0 cm) in length and 11 inches (27.9 cm) in width, with 16 pairs of veins, creating a bold, variegated effect.

In the Garden

With a mature spread of 38 inches (96.5 cm) and height of 24 inches (61.0 cm), 'Aurora Borealis' forms a substantial clump suitable for mid-border or specimen placement in partial to full shade. Its large, textured leaves provide strong contrast when paired with finer-textured shade perennials such as ferns or *Heuchera*. The scape reaches 28 inches (71.1 cm) in height, though bloom height is variable.

Care Notes

Grow in moist, well-drained soil with regular watering during dry periods; apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, this cultivar is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in affected gardens.