H. ‘Mike Shadrack’

Overview

Registered in 2001, *Hosta* 'Mike Shadrack' is a large-sized cultivar derived from a cross between *Hosta* 'Great Expectations' (pod parent) and *Hosta* 'Rock and Roll' (pollen parent). Its most distinctive features are medium green leaves with medium gold margins 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.8 cm) wide, combined with an extremely cupped and rugose leaf surface on a vase-shaped clump.

In the Garden

'Mike Shadrack' forms an upright, vase-shaped clump with a moderate growth rate, reaching mature dimensions typical of large hostas. The leaves measure 9 inches (22.9 cm) in both length and width, with wavy margins that contribute to the plant's textural presence. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is standard for variegated hostas, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials that complement its gold-margined foliage.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, slug and deer damage may occur and should be managed through appropriate deterrents in typical hosta-growing zones.