H. ‘Cup of Joy’

Overview

Registered in 2011, *Hosta* 'Cup of Joy' is a medium-sized cultivar of unknown pollen parentage, with *H.* 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd' as the pod parent. It is visually distinguished by its deeply cupped, heavily corrugated leaves with green centers and broad, flat golden yellow margins, and by its pronounced cup shape that can reach up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) in depth.

In the Garden

'Cup of Joy' forms a dense, slow-growing mound 11 inches (27.9 cm) tall and 22 inches (55.9 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for the middle of a shade border or as a specimen in a woodland garden. It performs best in partial to full shade with consistent moisture, and its textured foliage contrasts well with fine-leaved plants such as ferns or *Heuchera*. Its moderate size and deep cupping also make it a candidate for container culture.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture, especially during dry periods; apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, as the thick, corrugated leaves can be attractive to both pests.