H. ‘Summer Olympics’

Overview

A sport of *Hosta* 'Alex Summers' discovered by Mark Zilis in 2001 and registered in 2004, 'Summer Olympics' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by its blue-green leaves with bright gold, flat margins. The leaf blades are ovate with rounded bases and lightly wavy edges, bearing a glaucous bloom on the undersides and a dull surface above.

In the Garden

'Summer Olympics' forms an upright, moderate-growing clump reaching 16 inches (40.6 cm) in height and 33 inches (83.8 cm) in diameter. Its bright gold margins contrast sharply with the blue-green centers, making it suitable for partial to dappled shade in typical hosta-growing zones. The gold scapes rise 30 to 36 inches (76.2 to 91.4 cm) above the foliage, and the plant pairs well with other shade-tolerant perennials such as ferns, heucheras, and astilbes.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Summer Olympics' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so appropriate deterrents may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.