H. ‘Golden Empress’

Overview

Registered in 1990 by Kuk's Forest Nursery, this small hosta cultivar is a hybrid of *Hosta* 'Wayside Blue'. It is visually defined by its green leaf centers with medium yellow, undulating margins, a color pattern that persists through the growing season.

In the Garden

'Hosta 'Golden Empress' reaches a mature clump diameter of 18 inches (45.7 cm) and a height of 10 inches (25.4 cm), making it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container cultivation. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, where its variegated foliage remains most vivid. Companion plants include ferns, heucheras, and small woodland perennials that complement its compact form.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture, especially during dry periods. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release formulation; minimal slug and deer resistance is typical for hostas with thin, variegated leaves.