Aureo Marginata has a classic look, with deep-veined green leaves sporting understated gold margins. The cultivar is said to multiply vigorously, making it a good space filler. Topped with lavender blooms in summer, it can serve as an attractive focal point, or simply sit back to form an elegant background for your showier plants.z

Scientific Name: Hosta fortunei 'Aureomarginata'

Common Name: Aureo Marginata Hosta

Garden Size: 14-18 inches tall by 24-36 inches wide; scape height 24 inches

Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast

USDA Zone: 3-9

Exposure: Partial to full shade

Water & Soil: Moist, well-drained soil

Habit (Form): Mounding

Foliage: Heart-shaped, deep green leaves with narrow yellow margins. The transition between colors has a feathered or brushed shape. The leaves have a matte surface, and their recessed veins sometimes develop into a corrugated texture with maturity.

Flowers: Pale lavender, tube-shaped flowers that grow on scapes above the foliage. Blooms mid summer.

Plant Origin: East Asia, primarily Japan and Korea. Most commercially available hostas are hybrids.

Wildlife Support: Hummingbirds and some bees enjoy the flowers. A favorite treat for our local deer.

Fertilizing: Apply compost in early spring before new growth emerges.

Pruning: Remove spent flower stalks to encourage new growth; trim back damaged or yellowing leaves as needed. Leave the leaves over the winter and wait until early spring to clean up.

ASPCA Toxicity flags (see their site for details): Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Uses: Ideal for shade gardens, woodland borders, and container plantings.

AHS Classification: III-5b (Medium Leaved, Yellow Margined, Green to Blue Center)

Parentage: Unknown

Notes: Recipient of the Award of Garden Merit (AGM) from the UK's Royal Horticultural Society.