H. ‘Northern Lights’

Overview

Registered in 1984 by Walters Gardens, Inc., *Hosta* 'Northern Lights' is a sport of *Hosta* 'Elegans' distinguished by its large, blue-green leaves with creamy white margins. The foliage forms a dense, tight clump, with each leaf reaching 10 inches (25.4 cm) in length and 8 inches (20.3 cm) in width.

In the Garden

This cultivar performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue-green centers and white margins remain most pronounced. Mature plants reach approximately 22 inches (55.9 cm) in height and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for mid-border or specimen placement in woodland gardens. It pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials; its substantial size precludes container cultivation for most applications.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, particularly during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Northern Lights' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor foliage and apply barriers or repellents as needed. It is hardy in typical hosta-growing zones.