H. ‘Goodness Gracious’

Overview

Registered in 2009 as a sport of an unidentified parent, *Hosta* 'Goodness Gracious' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by its broad, yellow leaf margins that contrast sharply with a dark green leaf center. The leaves are broadly ovate with cordate bases, measuring 7.5 inches (19.1 cm) long and 5.5 inches (14.0 cm) wide, and feature 8 to 10 pairs of deeply impressed veins. The yellow margins, 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.8 cm) wide, exhibit slight rippling and piecrusting, while both leaf surfaces are dull.

In the Garden

'Goodness Gracious' forms a mound-like clump reaching 20 inches (50.8 cm) in height and 18 inches (45.7 cm) in diameter, with a fast growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the dark green center and gold margins hold their color most reliably. This cultivar pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials; its medium size makes it suitable for border fronts or woodland gardens, though it is not typically recommended for 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 advisable, as both pests may damage the foliage.