H. ‘Summer Rainbow’

Overview

Registered in 2010 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Sum and Substance', 'Summer Rainbow' is a large cultivar distinguished by its blue-green leaves with wide, creamy white margins. The leaf center transitions from chartreuse in spring to dark green by summer, while the margins remain a consistent creamy white, creating a pronounced variegated effect.

In the Garden

'Summer Rainbow' forms a substantial mound reaching 24 inches (61 cm) in height and 40 inches (102 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for hostas, and its large, broadly ovate leaves with cordate bases and moderate corrugation provide textural interest. This cultivar pairs well with other shade perennials such as ferns, astilbes, and heucheras, and its size makes it suitable as a specimen or in mixed borders.

Care Notes

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