H. ‘Bill and Eleanor’

Overview

Registered in 2001 by E. Lachman, Hosta 'Bill and Eleanor' is a medium-sized cultivar of unknown parentage distinguished by its dramatic color contrast of golden yellow leaves with dark green, slightly rippled margins. The broadly ovate to nearly round leaves are cupped, measure 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) long by 7 inches (17.8 cm) wide, and feature four vein pairs, with a 1.5-inch (3.8 cm) wide dark green border.

In the Garden

'Bill and Eleanor' forms an upright mound reaching 24 inches (61.0 cm) in height and 32 inches (81.3 cm) in diameter at maturity. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, where the golden yellow leaf centers maintain their brightness without scorching. This medium-sized hosta pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade perennials, and its upright habit makes it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in woodland gardens.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, this cultivar is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so appropriate management measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.