H. ‘Louis XIV’

Overview

Registered in 2010 from unknown parentage, 'Louis XIV' is a large hosta distinguished by its bright yellow, slightly rippled leaf margins on green leaves and an upright, fountain-like growth habit. This cultivar is notable for its very fast growth rate, profuse flowering, and tolerance of sunnier positions than many hostas.

In the Garden

'Louis XIV' reaches a mature spread of approximately 48 inches (122 cm) and a height of 30 inches (76 cm), with flower scapes extending 32 to 40 inches (81 to 102 cm) above the foliage. Its upright, fountain-like form and sun tolerance make it suitable for partially shaded borders or sites with morning sun; it pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade perennials. Given its large size and rapid expansion, this cultivar is best used as a specimen or in spacious beds rather than containers.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. While more sun-tolerant than most hostas, foliage may scorch in intense afternoon sun; slug damage is possible but not severe, and deer may browse young shoots in typical hosta-growing zones.