H. ‘Summer Warrior’

Overview

Registered in 2000 from unknown parentage, 'Summer Warrior' is a large hosta distinguished by its upright habit and green leaves with gold margins. The foliage features heavy, greenish-yellow rippled margins and a very shiny upper surface, with leaves reaching 12 inches (30.5 cm) long and 6 inches (15.2 cm) wide.

In the Garden

'Summer Warrior' forms a substantial, upright clump with a moderate growth rate, maturing to a large size suitable for mid-border or specimen placement. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for gold-margined hostas, and its 30 to 36 inch (76.2 to 91.4 cm) scapes bear lavender flowers in midsummer. This cultivar pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials that complement its bold foliage.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, monitor for slug and deer damage, which can disfigure the glossy leaves.