Hosta 'Sun Power'

Hosta 'Sun Power': Wavy Gold That Lights a Dark Corner

Bright gold, wavy leaves with a little twist at the tip, like a curtsy. 'Sun Power' is basically a solar panel for the shade garden, and IT DOESN'T EVEN NEED A REBATE.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Hosta 'Sun Power'
• Common Name: Plantain Lily, Hosta
• Height: 60–70 cm (24–28 in) foliage, with flower stems to about 90 cm (3 ft)
• Spread: 120–180 cm (4–6 ft)
• Flowers: Pale lavender, on tall, slightly arching stems
• Bloom Time: Midsummer (July)
• Foliage: Bright gold, wavy leaves with a twisted tip and good substance
• Features: Benedict Garden Performance Medal 2016

Where to Plant: Use it as a focal point or specimen in a shady border, or to brighten a dark corner under trees. Its upright shape gives height to the middle of a bed.

Companion Plants: Athyrium niponicum var. pictum brings finely cut fronds at 45 cm, a delicate contrast to this hosta's broad golden leaves. Astilbe 'Amethyst' rises to 100 cm with purple plumes in June and July, and purple and gold always look good together. Heuchera 'Grape Soda' edges the front at 20 to 25 cm with pink flowers from May to August. All three share the same shade to part sun, making for a long-flowering bed.

Plant Care: Plant in part shade with some morning sun, in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Morning light keeps the gold bright, while shade from the hot afternoon sun prevents scorch. Water deeply during dry spells, especially in its first summer. Deer and rabbits will eat hostas, so use a repellent or fencing if they visit. Watch for slugs in wet weather. Cut back the flower stems after bloom and clean up the foliage after a hard frost. Divide in spring if it outgrows its spot.

History: 'Sun Power' was registered in 1986 by Paul Aden of New York, though the American Hosta Society notes that its actual originator is unknown. It became popular soon after its mid-1980s introduction and won the Benedict Garden Performance Medal in 2016.

Final Thoughts: Easy care and a big golden glow. Plant it in a gloomy corner and cancel the electrician. THE POWER IS ON.