H. ‘Sum Sunfish’
Hosta ‘Sum Sunfish’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2004 |
|---|---|
| Section class | I-5a (Giant) |
Overview
Registered in 2004, 'Sum Sunfish' is a giant sport of *Hosta* 'Sum and Substance', distinguished by its light green leaves with greenish-yellow margins. The broadly ovate, lightly cupped and corrugated foliage reaches 16 inches in length and 14.5 inches in width, with 15 vein pairs and a slightly shiny upper surface.
In the Garden
This cultivar forms a substantial mound 36 inches in diameter and 32 inches tall, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, where its large leaves and lighter margin provide contrast against darker green companions such as ferns or *Heuchera*. The tall scapes, reaching 36 to 42 inches, bear light green flowers that rise above the foliage.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While slug and deer resistance is not documented for this cultivar, standard protective measures are advisable in gardens where these pests are prevalent.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 32 in (81.3 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 36 in (91.4 cm) |
| Leaf length | 16 in (40.6 cm) |
| Leaf width | 14.5 in (36.8 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 15 |
| Leaf | light green with .25 to .4in (0.6 to 1.0cm) wide, greenish yellow, flat margins; slightly shiny on top; dull underneath; lightly cupped and lightly corrugated |
| Flower scape height | 36–42 in (91.4–106.7 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | same coloring as 'Sum and Substance' with a lighter margin |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Sport parent: Sport of H. 'Sum and Substance' — H. ‘Sum and Substance’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (I-5a, giant size):
- H. ‘Coast to Coast’ (2014)
- H. ‘Sentimental Journey’ (2004)
- H. ‘Friar Tuck’ (2000)
- H. ‘Moonlight Madness’ (1999)
- H. ‘Summer Showcase’ (2009)
- H. ‘Zebson’ (1998)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #5468