H. ‘Golden Surprise’

Overview

Registered in 1991 by L. Simpers and P. Ruh, this small hosta is a hybrid of *Hosta nakaiana*. Its distinguishing feature is a green leaf blade with gold margins, the latter exhibiting yellow-chartreuse tones and slight undulations.

In the Garden

'Hosta 'Golden Surprise' reaches a mature diameter of 16 inches (40.6 cm) and a height of 11 inches (27.9 cm), placing it in the small size class. It performs best in partial shade to dappled light, typical for gold-margined cultivars, and is well-suited to rock gardens, troughs, or the front of borders. Its compact habit also makes it appropriate for container culture.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable for this cultivar, as for most hostas.