River Valley Gold Hosta

The Hosta 'River Valley Gold' is a large, vigorous perennial known for its dramatically corrugated gold foliage that emerges light green in spring and intensifies in color through the summer. It is a relatively new cultivar, introduced in 2023 by hybridizers Bob and L. Fox. 

Key Characteristics

• Foliage: The leaves are large, bold, and heavily textured (corrugated), which makes the plant highly slug-resistant. They emerge a light green and transition to a rich, intense gold as the season progresses, with many leaves arching gracefully downward.
• Size: The plant forms a large, imposing mound, typically reaching 28 inches tall and spreading about 42-45 inches wide.
  Flowers: In midsummer, it produces scapes topped with fertile, pale lavender flowers.
• Growth Habit: It is described as a vigorous and robust plant, suitable as an anchor or focal point in a garden setting.
  Awards/Collections: It is part of the Bob Solberg Hosta Collection for 2026 and was a new release for 2025 in some nurseries. 
  

Care and Planting

• Light: Hosta 'River Valley Gold' thrives in shade to part-sun locations. Gold varieties generally need some sun exposure (preferably morning sun) to develop their best color but should be protected from the harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf burn.
• Soil: It grows best in fertile, humusy, and well-drained soil. Heavy clay soil should be avoided as it can lead to root issues.
• Watering: Consistent moisture is important, especially during its first growing season. Once established, it can be more self-sufficient, but it needs regular watering when planted under trees whose roots compete for moisture.
• Winter Care: The leaves naturally fade in the autumn and die back to the ground. The dead foliage should be removed in late fall or early spring to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering.