H. ‘Lemon Meringue’

Overview

Registered in 1991 by P. Ruh, this large hosta cultivar is visually distinguished by its green leaves with gold margins and light yellow, slightly undulating leaf edges. The hybrid parentage is recorded as a pod parent of a hybrid, though the specific cross is not detailed in the registry.

In the Garden

Mature plants reach approximately 27 inches (68.6 cm) in diameter and 19 inches (48.3 cm) in height, placing it in the large size class. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and benefits from protection from intense afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch. The substantial leaf size—11.5 inches (29.2 cm) long by 10 inches (25.4 cm) wide with 12 vein pairs—makes it suitable as a specimen plant or in mixed shade borders alongside ferns, astilbes, or other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; regular monitoring and appropriate control measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.