H. ‘Standard's Bands’

Overview

Registered in 2010 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Gold Standard', 'Standard's Bands' is a medium-sized hosta distinguished by its reverse coloration: medium green leaves with pale yellow margins, the opposite of its parent's gold-centered, green-margined foliage. The broadly ovate, moderately corrugated leaves measure 8 inches (20.3 cm) long by 6 inches (15.2 cm) wide, with 9 vein pairs and flat margins 0.25 to 0.5 inches (0.6 to 1.3 cm) wide. The leaf surface is slightly shiny above and dull beneath.

In the Garden

Reaching 12 inches (30.5 cm) in height and 24 inches (61.0 cm) in diameter, 'Standard's Bands' forms a mound-like clump with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its green-and-gold variegation remains stable, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials. The 28 to 36 inch (71.1 to 91.4 cm) green scapes produce lavender flowers in midsummer, adding vertical interest to the border.

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, requiring protective measures in areas where these pests are prevalent.