H. ‘Rays of Sunshine’

Overview

Registered in 1990 by Fairway Enterprises, Hosta 'Rays of Sunshine' is a large sport of H. 'Fortunei Aureomarginata' distinguished by its medium green leaves with broad, irregular gold margins. The foliage is heavily textured with a waxy upper surface, bearing six pairs of veins per leaf.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a substantial clump reaching 30 inches (76.2 cm) in both height and diameter, with individual leaves measuring 12 inches (30.5 cm) long and 6 inches (15.2 cm) wide. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the gold margins remain brightest; excessive sun may cause marginal scorching. The 48-inch (122 cm) scapes bear pale lavender flowers in midsummer. Suitable companions include ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its large size makes it appropriate for mid-border or specimen planting in woodland gardens.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, this cultivar is susceptible to slug and deer damage; regular monitoring and appropriate control measures are recommended in typical hosta-growing zones.