H. ‘Mother Lode’

Overview

Registered in 2003, *Hosta* 'Mother Lode' is a medium-sized cultivar derived from a cross between *H. 'Sea Prize'* (pod parent) and *H. 'Maekawa'* (pollen parent). It is visually distinguished by its blue-green leaves with gold margins and a pronounced tendency toward unstable streaking in shades of dark green, light medium green, pale yellow, yellow, and golden yellow.

In the Garden

'Mother Lode' reaches a mature spread of approximately 33 inches (83.8 cm) and a height of 19 inches (48.3 cm), with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, typical for hostas, and its heavy, corrugated, cupped leaves with good substance withstand slug damage moderately well. The gold-margined foliage pairs effectively with shade-tolerant perennials such as ferns, heucheras, and astilbes, and the plant is suitable for mixed borders or woodland gardens.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While the heavy leaf substance offers some resistance, standard slug and deer deterrents are advisable in areas where these pests are prevalent.