H. ‘Sugar Mama’

Overview

Registered in 2004 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Big Daddy', 'Sugar Mama' is a small-sized cultivar distinguished by its reverse-variegated foliage: creamy white leaf centers framed by medium green margins. The leaves measure 6 inches (15.2 cm) in length and 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) in width, with margins approximately 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) wide.

In the Garden

'Sugar Mama' performs best in partial to full shade, where its variegation remains stable and the green margins do not fade. Mature clumps reach a small size, typically 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) in height and 18 to 24 inches (46 to 61 cm) in spread. Its compact habit makes it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings, and it pairs well with other small shade perennials such as ferns, heucheras, or dwarf astilbes.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Sugar Mama' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor regularly and employ control measures as needed.