H. ‘Eric's Gold’

Overview

Registered in 2004 by an unknown breeder, *Hosta* 'Eric's Gold' is a large, fast-growing cultivar distinguished by its blue-green leaves with bright golden yellow margins. The broadly ovate leaves, measuring up to 9.5 inches (24.1 cm) long and 7 inches (17.8 cm) wide, feature 19 to 21 pairs of veins, a dull upper surface, and a glaucous bloom beneath. The leaf base is cordate, with slightly rippled margins and a deeply flat profile.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a broad, mound-like clump reaching 45 inches (114.3 cm) in diameter and 19.5 inches (49.5 cm) in height, with a fast growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and its substantial size makes it suitable as a specimen or in mixed shade borders. Companion plants such as ferns, astilbes, or heucheras complement its blue-green foliage and gold margins. Its large dimensions preclude container cultivation for most gardeners.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage foliage; monitor and manage as needed in the garden.