A bright, avocado-toned hosta with leaves in two shades of green. The variegation is subtle in spring but begins to really pop when the light green leaf centers mature to gold with summer heat. Sturdy, heavily textured foliage is resistant to slugs.

Scientific Name: Hosta 'Paradigm'

Common Name: Paradigm Hosta, formerly known as Abiqua Paradigm Hosta

Garden Size: 20 inches tall by 36-47 inches wide; scape height 24-36 inches

Growth Rate: Fast

USDA Zone: 3-9

Exposure: Partial to full shade

Water & Soil: Moist, well-drained soil

Habit (Form): Mounding

Foliage: Large, heart-shaped leaves with narrow, dark green margins and yellow-green centers. The transition between colors has a streaked or feathered appearance. The variegation can be subtle in spring but becomes more visible as the chartreuse centers mature to golden yellow in hot weather. The broad, slightly cupped leaves are substantial and heavily corrugated, making them resistant to slugs.

Flowers: Near-white, bell-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: II-6b (Large Leaved, Green or Blue Margined, Green to Blue Center)

Parentage: Sport of H. ‘Abiqua Recluse’

Notes: AHGA Hosta of the Year 2007