H. ‘Small Sum’

Overview

Registered in 1996 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Sum and Substance', 'Small Sum' is a large cultivar distinguished by its green leaves with yellow-gold margins and exceptionally glossy surfaces on both sides. The leaf blades measure 9 inches (22.9 cm) long by 8 inches (20.3 cm) wide, with eight vein pairs and slightly rippled margins.

In the Garden

'Small Sum' forms a mound-like clump reaching 20 inches (50.8 cm) in height and 36 inches (91.4 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the gold margins remain most vibrant, and is suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in typical hosta-growing zones. The light green scapes, 12 to 24 inches (30.5 to 61.0 cm) tall, carry pale lavender flowers in midsummer.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods; apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new shoots emerge. The thick, glossy leaves show moderate resistance to slug damage, though standard preventive measures are advisable in persistently damp conditions.