H. ‘Semperaurea’

Overview

Registered in 2003 by P. & J. Ruh from parentage unknown, *Hosta* 'Semperaurea' is a giant cultivar distinguished by its blue-green leaves with broad, undulated gold margins and a glaucous bloom on both surfaces. The leaves are broadly ovate with cordate bases, measuring 15 inches (38.1 cm) long by 9 inches (22.9 cm) wide, with 11 to 17 vein pairs sunken above.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a mound-like clump reaching 24 inches (61.0 cm) in height and 32 to 48 inches (81.3 cm) in diameter, making it suitable as a specimen or background plant in shaded borders. It produces scapes 28 to 32 inches (71.1 to 81.3 cm) tall with green or whitish green flowers. 'Semperaurea' shows less tendency than many gold-margined hostas to develop necrotic tissue in direct sun, though typical hosta-growing zones with partial to full shade are recommended. Its substantial size precludes container cultivation.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture; fertilize in early spring as growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, though the thick, glaucous leaves may offer some resistance.