H. ‘David Reath’

Overview

Registered in 1998, 'David Reath' is a sport of an unidentified parent, producing a large, upright clump of blue-green leaves with wide, golden-yellow margins. The foliage is distinguished by its cordate leaf bases, glaucous bloom on the undersides, and flat, slightly shiny upper surfaces with dark green centers and gold edges.

In the Garden

This cultivar reaches 28 inches (71.1 cm) in height and 42 inches (106.7 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for mid-border or specimen placement in partial to full shade. Its substantial size and upright habit pair well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade perennials that contrast with its broad, variegated leaves.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. While typical hosta-growing zones are appropriate, this cultivar may show reduced slug damage due to its glaucous leaf coating, though deer remain a potential threat.