H. ‘Silver and Gold’

Overview

Registered in 1995, this sport of an unnamed parent produces medium-sized mounds of blue-green leaves with white margins that emerge in spring with a distinctive gold center. The foliage is characterized by 7-inch (17.8 cm) long, 5.5-inch (14.0 cm) wide leaves with 7 to 9 vein pairs, featuring a medium gold center bordered by a 0.75-inch (1.9 cm) wide margin of green and white. The leaf surface is slightly shiny above with a glaucous bloom beneath, and the leaf base is rounded.

In the Garden

Mature plants reach 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height and 40 inches (101.6 cm) in diameter, forming a fast-growing, mound-like clump. The scapes rise 24 to 28 inches (61.0 to 71.1 cm) above the foliage. This cultivar performs best in partial shade to maintain the gold center coloration; excessive sun may cause marginal scorching, while deep shade reduces the gold intensity. It pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials that complement its medium stature.

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. This cultivar shows typical hosta susceptibility to slugs and deer, requiring standard protective measures in problem areas.