H. ‘Heart of Gold’

Overview

Registered in 1996, this medium-sized cultivar resulted from a cross between *Hosta* 'Sea Prize' (pod parent) and *Hosta pycnophylla* (pollen parent). 'Heart of Gold' is visually distinctive for its blue-green leaves with light green, flat margins, a slightly shiny upper surface, and a glaucous bloom on the underside.

In the Garden

Mature plants form a mound-like clump reaching approximately 38 inches (96.5 cm) in diameter and 20 inches (50.8 cm) in height, with a moderate growth rate. The leaves are 8 inches (20.3 cm) long and 7.5 inches (19.1 cm) wide, with cordate bases and nine pairs of veins. This cultivar performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its medium size makes it suitable for border fronts, woodland gardens, or as a specimen in shaded beds.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Heart of Gold' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor regularly and apply controls as needed.