This hosta's crowning moment comes in spring when furled yellow leaves emerge on fiery red petioles. As it matures, the red petioles remain, while the leaves spread out and blush green. Lavender flowers grow on crimson scapes, mirroring the red petioles.

Scientific Name: Hosta 'Fire Island'

Common Name: Fire Island Hosta

Garden Size: 10-14 inches tall by 30-33 inches wide; scape height 18-20 inches

Growth Rate: Fast

USDA Zone: 3-9

Exposure: Partial to full shade

Water & Soil: Moist, well-drained soil

Habit (Form): Mounded

Foliage: Heart-shaped, yellow to chartreuse leaves grow on red petioles, especially noticeable in early spring when the young leaves emerge. The red stem color extends a little into the leaf's veins, reminiscent of beet or rhubarb leaves. Mature leaves are bright green with slightly rippled edges and a corrugated texture.

Flowers: Lavender, tube-shaped flowers that grow on reddish scapes above the foliage. Blooms 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-3 (Small Leaved, Yellow)

Parentage: Hybrid of H. longipes hypoglauca x H. ‘Crested Surf’