The 'Island Breeze' hosta brings vibrant, tropical color to your shade garden. Sun-kissed chartreuse leaves with deep green edges grow on red petioles, matched in summer by red flower scapes that carry the plant's vivid purple flowers.

Scientific Name: Hosta 'Island Breeze' PP 27151

Common Name: Island Breeze Hosta

Garden Size: 12 inches tall by 18-28 inches wide; scape height 28 inches

Growth Rate: Moderate

USDA Zone: 3-9

Exposure: Partial to full shade

Water & Soil: Moist, well-drained soil

Habit (Form): Mounding

Foliage: Heart-shaped, corrugated leaves emerge in spring supported by red petioles. Red speckles from the petioles extend slightly into the leaves. The leaves have dark green margins and bright yellow centers that mature to chartreuse in shade or lighter yellow with more sun exposure. The transition between the margin and center colors has an irregular, streaked appearance.

Flowers: Purple, bell-shaped flowers that grow on red scapes above the foliage. Blooms mid to late 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: IV-6a (Small Leaved; Green or Blue Margined; Yellow, White, or Chartreuse Center)

Parentage: Sport of H. 'Paradise Island'

Notes: AHGA Hosta of the Year 2022