Age of Gold Hosta

The Hosta 'Age of Gold' is a large, low-maintenance perennial known for its striking golden-yellow foliage and tolerance for shade. It is a popular choice for adding a bold statement to garden beds and woodland areas. 

Key Characteristics

• Foliage: The plant features large, broad, heart-shaped leaves that are a vibrant gold color, with some descriptions mentioning a slight lime green variegation or chartreuse tinge. The color is best maintained with morning sun or filtered shade. The leaves have a slightly corrugated texture and deep veins.
• Flowers: Dainty spikes of near-white, tubular flowers with faint pale lavender overtones rise above the foliage in mid-to-late summer. These blooms attract hummingbirds.
• Size: At maturity, the foliage typically grows to about 25 inches (63.5 cm) tall, with flower stalks extending up to 4 feet (1.2 m). It can spread up to 5 feet (1.5 m) wide.
• Growth Habit: It forms an upright, spreading mound. The plant grows at a slow rate and can live for approximately 10 years under ideal conditions. 
  

Growing Conditions & Care

• Light: Prefers partial to full shade. While it can tolerate morning sun, it should be protected from the harsh afternoon sun, which can burn the leaves. The golden color is more pronounced with some sun exposure.
• Soil: Thrives in moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5-7.5) is ideal.
• Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during its first growing season. Water deeply and regularly, ensuring the soil does not dry out completely.
• Hardiness Zone: It is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9.
• Pests: The main pests are slugs and snails, which can be managed with bait applied in early spring. Deer may also be an issue.
• Maintenance: This is a low-maintenance plant. Dead or damaged leaves can be clipped off at any time, and spent flower stalks should be removed if seeding is not desired.