H. ‘Island Fling’

Overview

Registered in 2016 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Fortunei Aureomarginata', 'Island Fling' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by its blue-green leaves with flat, golden yellow margins measuring 0.25 to 0.5 inches (0.6 to 1.3 cm) wide. The leaves are broadly ovate with cordate bases, dull on the upper surface with a glaucous bloom beneath, and lightly corrugated overall, bearing 9 to 10 vein pairs per leaf.

In the Garden

'Island Fling' forms a dense, upright clump reaching 13 inches (33.0 cm) in height and 32 inches (81.3 cm) in diameter, with a fast growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the blue-green leaf centers contrast well with the gold margins. This medium-sized hosta suits the middle of a shaded border or woodland garden and pairs effectively with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials; its compact habit also makes it suitable for larger containers.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new shoots emerge. The cultivar exhibits notable pest resistance, though standard slug and deer deterrents may still be warranted in high-pressure areas.