H. ‘Mildred's Smile’

Overview

Registered in 2007 as an open-pollinated seedling of *Hosta* 'Mildred Seaver', 'Mildred's Smile' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by its bright yellow leaf margins that are notably sun tolerant, a trait uncommon among gold-margined hostas. The leaves are ovate to broadly ovate, dull on the upper surface and slightly shiny beneath, with 11 pairs of veins and a lightly twisted, moderately wavy, very lightly corrugated texture.

In the Garden

'Mildred's Smile' reaches a mature spread of 36 inches (91.4 cm) and a height of 15 inches (38.1 cm), with scapes rising 36 to 38 inches (91.4 to 96.5 cm) above the foliage. Its sun tolerance allows placement in more exposed sites than typical for the genus, though it performs best with morning sun and afternoon shade. The bright yellow margins pair well with blue-leaved hostas or dark-leaved heucheras for contrast; its medium size suits middle-border positions or large containers.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, particularly during establishment and in sunnier locations. Fertilize in early spring as growth emerges; slug damage may occur but is less severe than on thinner-leaved cultivars. Deer resistance is typical for the genus.