H. ‘Gladiator’
Hosta ‘Gladiator’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2001 |
|---|---|
| Section class | II-8(3-5a) (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 2001 as a sport of Hosta 'Spotlight', 'Gladiator' is a large, upright cultivar distinguished by its blue-green leaves with broad, radiant golden yellow margins. The ovate leaves, measuring 12.5 inches (31.8 cm) long and 8 inches (20.3 cm) wide, feature 10 to 11 pairs of deep veins, a very shiny upper surface, and a glaucous bloom beneath. The flat, golden yellow margins extend approximately 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) into the leaf blade, creating a strong color contrast.
In the Garden
'Gladiator' reaches a mature diameter of 36 inches (91.4 cm) and a height of 25 inches (63.5 cm), with an upright growth habit and moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, where the gold margins hold their color without scorching. The large, bold foliage pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials; its substantial size makes it unsuitable for small containers.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are recommended, as the large, tender leaves are attractive to both pests.
This summary was generated with AI from the registry record and has not been reviewed yet; the registry data on this page is the reference. How we use AI.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 25 in (63.5 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 36 in (91.4 cm) |
| Leaf length | 12.5 in (31.8 cm) |
| Leaf width | 8 in (20.3 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 11 |
| Leaf | greenish yelllow with .5in (1.3cm) wide, golden yellow, flat margins; very shiny on top; glaucous bloom underneath; deep veined |
| Flower scape height | 45–50 in (114.3–127.0 cm) |
| Seasonal colour change | emerges all gold, later center greens |
| Notable characteristics | radiant gold margin on large green leaves |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Sport parent: Sport of H. 'Spotliight'
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-8(3-5a), large size):
- H. ‘Bright Feather’ (2011)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #2087. How we check this data.