Hosta hybrid 'Bold Edger'

The lavender flowers of Bold Edger attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, while the dense foliage provides shelter for small insects and beneficial wildlife. The thick leaves help deter slugs, making this hosta a resilient addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.

Emerges in spring with full foliage by late spring. Flowers appear mid to late summer. Foliage remains attractive into early fall, going dormant as temperatures drop.

Excellent for shady borders, underplanting for shrubs/trees, woodland gardens, shaded container displays, and as ground cover in shaded areas

Bold Edger features large, heart-shaped leaves with rich dark green centers and wide, golden-yellow margins. The variegated foliage creates a bold contrast in the garden, and the thick, textured leaves are resistant to slug damage. The leaves form a dense, mounded clump that provides excellent ground cover in shaded areas.

• Flowering Season: Midsummer (July to August).
• Flower Description: In midsummer, Bold Edger produces tall scapes bearing clusters of light lavender, bell-shaped flowers. These delicate blooms rise above the foliage and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. While the flowers add charm, the foliage is the main attraction.

• Planting Time: Plant in early spring or fall to give the roots time to establish in cool, moist soil before summer heat or winter frost.

• Soil: Bold Edger thrives in rich, well-drained, moist soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Amending the soil with organic matter like compost helps improve drainage and soil fertility.

• Spacing: Space plants 24-36 inches apart to allow for their mature spread, creating a full and lush look in borders or mass plantings.

Remove spent flower scapes after blooming to keep the plant looking neat. In late fall, cut back the foliage to ground level after it dies back for the winter. New growth will emerge in the spring.

Bold Edger prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.

Partial shade to full shade. Bold Edger performs best in partial to full shade, making it ideal for shaded garden areas, woodland gardens, or under trees. It can tolerate some morning sun, but avoid exposure to harsh afternoon sunlight, which can cause the leaf margins to burn.

Hostas are not typically grown for harvesting, but mature flower stalks can be cut and used in floral arrangements. Spent flower stalks should be removed to maintain plant tidiness. Some gardeners in culinary circles harvest hosta shoots (called “hostons”) in early spring for edible purposes, but this is not common with ornamental varieties like 'Bold Edger'.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Apply compost or organic matter around the base of the plant to improve soil fertility. A second light feeding in mid-summer may help encourage additional growth.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Mulching also protects the shallow roots from temperature fluctuations.

• Winter Care: Bold Edger is fully hardy in USDA Zones 3-8 and does not require special winter protection. In colder climates, mulching helps insulate the roots during freezing temperatures.

• Pest and Disease Resistance: This hosta is generally resistant to pests and diseases, with its thick leaves offering good protection against slugs. Ensure good air circulation and proper watering to prevent potential issues such as crown rot or fungal diseases.

The flowers of Bold Edger attract bees and butterflies, aiding in pollination. The plant does not require special pollination care and will bloom reliably each year without intervention.

Pairs beautifully with shade-loving perennials like Astilbe, Heuchera (Coral Bells), Ferns, Brunnera, Pulmonaria, and Tiarella. Also complements spring-flowering bulbs such as Daffodils and early Tulips before hosta foliage fully emerges.