Hosta hybrid 'Paul's Glory'

The flowers of 'Paul's Glory' attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies, during the summer months. Its thick leaves also make it slug-resistant, which is a great advantage for hosta growers. Additionally, 'Paul's Glory' is generally deer-resistant, making it a reliable option for gardens where wildlife browsing is a concern.

'Paul's Glory' is a deciduous perennial, emerging in spring with vibrant foliage, blooming in mid-summer, and going dormant in winter. The plant returns each spring with renewed vigor and beauty.

Shade gardens, woodland gardens, underplantings, borders, mass planting, containers in shade

The foliage of 'Paul's Glory' is the plant's standout feature. The large, heart-shaped leaves are golden-yellow with wide, irregular blue-green margins. As the season progresses, the yellow center lightens to a soft creamy color, creating a beautiful contrast with the darker edges. The leaves are slightly corrugated and have a thick texture, which helps resist slug damage. This bold variegation and textured surface make 'Paul's Glory' a showstopper in any shade garden.

• Flowering Season : Hosta 'Paul's Glory' blooms in mid-summer, typically from July to August. The pale lavender, bell-shaped flowers rise on tall, slender scapes, adding vertical interest to the garden and attracting pollinators.
• Flower Description : The flowers of 'Paul's Glory' are soft lavender, bell-shaped blooms that grow in clusters on tall stems up to 30 inches above the foliage. While the flowers are delicate and lovely, the plant is primarily admired for its striking foliage. The blooms attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing the garden's ecological value.

• When to Plant: Plant in early spring or fall to allow the hosta to establish its root system before the extremes of summer or winter.

• How to Plant: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and plant the crown at soil level. Space plants about 24-36 inches apart to accommodate their mature size and ensure proper air circulation.

Pruning is minimal for 'Paul's Glory'. In late fall, after the foliage dies back, cut the leaves down to the ground to prepare the plant for winter dormancy. Remove any dead or damaged leaves during the growing season to keep the plant looking tidy.

'Paul's Glory' prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil evenly moist. While this hosta is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it thrives with consistent moisture, especially in warm climates. Avoid waterlogged soils, as these can lead to root rot.

This hosta thrives in partial shade to full shade, though it can tolerate some morning sun. In dappled or filtered sunlight, the vibrant variegation on the leaves is most pronounced. Protect the plant from harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves and fade their color.

While 'Paul's Glory' is primarily grown for its foliage, the flower stems can be cut and used in fresh floral arrangements. The leaves can also be used in foliage-based arrangements to add texture and color.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or apply organic compost to encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage. A second light application of fertilizer in midsummer can help sustain the plant’s growth, especially in nutrient-poor soils.

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

• Soil: 'Paul's Glory' prefers rich, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It performs well in humus-rich soils but is adaptable to a variety of soil types as long as they are well-drained.

• Disease Resistance: This hosta is generally resistant to pests and diseases, with its thick leaves offering protection against slugs and snails. Ensure proper air circulation to prevent issues like powdery mildew or leaf spot.

The flowers of Hosta 'Paul's Glory' are pollinated by bees and other beneficial insects. While the plant is grown mainly for its foliage, the flowers provide a valuable nectar source for pollinators during the summer months.

Ferns (like Dryopteris and Athyrium), Astilbe, Heuchera, Brunnera, Pulmonaria, Tiarella, Dicentra, Epimedium, Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa), and shade-tolerant ornamental grasses. These plants all thrive in similar shady, moisture-retentive environments and complement the bold foliage of ‘Paul’s Glory’.