H. ‘Hawaiian Luau’

Overview

Registered in 2011 as a sport of Hosta 'Pineapple Upsidedown Cake', 'Hawaiian Luau' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by its unusual coloration: yellow leaf centers with very thick, dark green, flat margins. The leaves bear a thick glaucous bloom on the undersides, and the plant is believed to be a polyploidy chimera, contributing to its robust texture.

In the Garden

'Hawaiian Luau' forms a moderate-growing, mound-like clump reaching 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, where the yellow centers remain bright without scorching. The thick leaves offer good slug resistance, and the plant's medium size makes it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in shade gardens. Companion plants with contrasting foliage, such as ferns or dark-leaved heucheras, complement its two-tone appearance.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain even moisture, especially during dry periods; apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Typical hosta-growing zones apply, and while the thick foliage deters slugs, standard slug control measures are advisable in persistently wet seasons.