H. ‘Valedictorian’

Overview

Registered in 2016, *Hosta* 'Valedictorian' is a medium-sized cultivar resulting from a cross between *H.* 'Paradigm' (seed parent) and *H.* 'Sagae' (pollen parent). Its most distinctive feature is the foliage: leaves emerge yellow and later develop into a blue-green center with a radiant golden yellow margin, a color progression that sets it apart from many gold-margined forms.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a mound-like clump reaching 24 inches (61 cm) in diameter and 10 inches (25 cm) in height, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, as is typical for blue-green hostas, though the golden margins may intensify with some morning light. The broadly ovate leaves, 6 inches (15 cm) long and 5.5 inches (14 cm) wide, have a cordate base, a dull upper surface, and a glaucous bloom beneath; the flat margins are greenish yellow at first, maturing to a bright golden yellow. With 11 to 12 vein pairs per leaf, the texture is substantial. The light green scapes rise 24 to 36 inches (61 to 91 cm) above the foliage, bearing lavender flowers in midsummer. Suitable companions include ferns, *Heuchera*, and other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, slug and deer damage may occur; monitor and manage as needed. This cultivar is hardy in typical hosta-growing zones.