H. ‘Sum Like it Hot’

Overview

Registered in 2003 by J. Vrable as a sport of *Hosta* 'Sum and Substance', 'Sum Like it Hot' is a giant-sized cultivar distinguished by its blue-green leaves with white margins that develop unstable streaks of greenish yellow, yellow, golden yellow, and creamy white. The broadly ovate, deeply corrugated leaves are slightly shiny above with a glaucous bloom beneath, and the scape is green streaked with yellow.

In the Garden

This cultivar reaches 21 inches (53.3 cm) in height and 29 inches (73.7 cm) in diameter, with an upright, moderate growth habit. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and its substantial, leathery foliage provides strong textural contrast alongside ferns, heucheras, or other shade perennials. The large size makes it suitable as a specimen or in the middle to back of a shaded border.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The heavy leaf substance offers some resistance to slugs, but standard slug control measures are advisable in damp conditions.