H. ‘Yellow Polka Dot Bikini’

Overview

*Hosta* 'Yellow Polka Dot Bikini' is a sport of *Hosta* 'Polka Dot Bikini', itself a sport of *Hosta* 'June'. The cultivar was introduced by Mark Zilis of Q & Z Nursery in Illinois in 2010. It is distinguished by its yellow-centered leaves with irregular, dark green marginal variegation, a color pattern that is relatively uncommon among medium-sized hostas.

In the Garden

*Hosta* 'Yellow Polka Dot Bikini' is best sited in partial to light shade; morning sun can enhance leaf color, but afternoon sun may cause marginal scorch. The leaves are ovate to heart-shaped, slightly cupped, and have a moderately corrugated texture with a matte finish. The yellow centers are brightest in spring and fade to chartreuse by late summer, while the dark green margins remain stable. This cultivar forms a dense, mounding clump of medium height and spread, making it suitable for the middle of a shaded border, as a groundcover beneath deciduous trees, or in a mixed container planting. Companion plants that contrast with its foliage include the fine-textured, burgundy leaves of *Heuchera* 'Palace Purple' or the blue-gray, needle-like foliage of *Festuca glauca*.

Care Notes

*Hosta* 'Yellow Polka Dot Bikini' requires consistently moist, well-drained soil for optimal growth. It is moderately susceptible to slug and snail damage, particularly in wet seasons, and may be browsed by deer. Hardiness zones have not been formally published for this cultivar, but it is presumed to be winter-hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8, consistent with its parentage.