H. ‘The Sun King’

Overview

Registered in 1999 by the Russ O'Harra Hosta Society, 'The Sun King' is a giant hosta cultivar of unknown parentage. It is visually distinctive for its large, blue-green leaves with broad golden yellow margins, a glaucous bloom on the undersides, and a slightly shiny upper surface.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a substantial mound, reaching 26 inches (66.0 cm) in height and spreading to 60 inches (152.4 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for hostas, and its bold foliage provides strong textural contrast when paired with ferns, astilbes, or other shade perennials. Due to its giant size, it is unsuitable for container cultivation and is best used as a specimen or in large border plantings.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods. Fertilize in early spring as new growth emerges; slug and deer damage may occur and should be managed as needed.