H. ‘Emma Foster’

Overview

Registered in 1985 by E. Foster as a sport of an unnamed parent, *Hosta* 'Emma Foster' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by its green leaves with light yellow to chartreuse margins. The leaves measure 7 inches (17.8 cm) long by 5 inches (12.7 cm) wide, with 16 pairs of veins, and the plant forms a clump 20 inches (50.8 cm) tall and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter.

In the Garden

'Emma Foster' performs best in partial to full shade, where its gold-edged foliage maintains good color contrast. At maturity, the clump spreads to about 30 inches (76 cm) across, making it suitable for the middle of a shaded border or as a groundcover beneath deciduous trees. It pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials, and its medium size allows for use in larger containers.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Emma Foster' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.