H. ‘Prairie Rainbow’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by D. Beilstein and M. Zilis, this medium-sized hosta is distinguished by its blue-green leaves with gold margins and a streaked pattern of dark green and gold along the flat leaf edges. The leaves exhibit a dull upper surface with a glaucous bloom beneath, and are elliptic with tapered bases, lightly cupped, wavy, and corrugated.

In the Garden

'Hosta 'Prairie Rainbow' reaches a mature spread of 38 inches (96.5 cm) and a height of 21 inches (53.3 cm), with upright scapes rising to 24 inches (61.0 cm). It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and its slow growth rate makes it suitable for border fronts, woodland gardens, or as a specimen in shaded beds. Its medium size allows pairing with ferns, heucheras, or other shade perennials, though it is not recommended for containers due to its mature dimensions.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. 'Prairie Rainbow' is susceptible to slug damage and deer browsing, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.