H. ‘Purple and Gold’

Overview

Registered in 1976 by E. Minks, this small hosta cultivar was produced from a cross between *H.* 'Ogon Koba' (pod parent) and *H.* 'Undulata' (pollen parent). It is visually distinctive for its green leaves with gold, undulating margins, a color pattern inherited from its parentage.

In the Garden

'Hosta 'Purple and Gold' reaches a mature size of approximately 8 inches (20.3 cm) in height and 12 inches (30.5 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or small-scale groundcover. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for gold-margined hostas, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other small woodland perennials. Its compact size also makes it a good candidate for container cultivation.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, especially in the first growing season, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.