Hosta hybrid 'Rainforest Sunrise'

• Attracts: Bees and hummingbirds are drawn to the nectar-rich flowers.
• Wildlife Resistant: Generally resistant to deer and rabbits, though young plants may be more vulnerable.

• Foliage Season: Spring to fall.
• Flowering Season: Early to mid-summer (June to July).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-9

• Shaded borders
• Woodland gardens
• Containers
• Ground cover
• Low-maintenance landscapes

• Color: Thick, heart-shaped leaves with bright golden-yellow centers and dark green margins. As the season progresses, the golden center deepens, adding dynamic visual appeal.
• Form: Leaves are slightly cupped with a glossy texture and ridged surface.
• Fall Interest: Foliage remains attractive until the first frost, after which it dies back for winter dormancy.

• Color: Pale lavender bell-shaped flowers.
• Form: Graceful flower spikes rise above the foliage, providing a soft contrast to the bold leaves.
• Bloom Time: Blooms in early to mid-summer, lasting several weeks.
• Fragrance: Mildly fragrant.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall for optimal root establishment.

• Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0-7.0).

• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery pot, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface.

• Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for mature growth and proper airflow.

• Timing: Prune as needed to remove dead or damaged leaves.
• Method: After flowering, cut back flower stalks to maintain a tidy appearance. In late fall, trim the foliage back to the ground as the plant enters dormancy.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, water deeply as needed, especially during dry periods.

• Soil Moisture: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Hosta plants prefer slightly damp soil and will thrive with regular watering.

Thrives in partial to full shade. It can tolerate morning sun but prefers shaded conditions, especially in hot climates to avoid leaf scor

– Harvesting time: Late summer to early fall – wait until the seed pods turn brown and begin to split or dry out on the plant before collecting.

– Harvesting method:

– Snip the mature seed pods from the flower stalk using clean scissors or pruners.

– Let pods dry further indoors in a paper bag.

– Once fully dry, open the pods to collect the small black seeds inside.

– Use of harvested seeds: While viable, seeds may not grow true to type and are typically used for breeding or experimentation. Most gardeners propagate hostas by division rather than seed.

– Edibility or culinary use: None – the pods are not edible and may be mildly toxic if ingested.

• Fertilization Time: Fertilize in early spring when new growth begins and again in mid-summer if needed.
• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost to encourage lush foliage and vigorous growth.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the crown to prevent rot.
• Drought Tolerance: Rainforest Sunrise prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought once established. Regular watering is recommended during dry spells.
• Pests and Diseases: Watch for slugs and snails, which are common pests for Hosta plants. Use barriers, traps, or organic slug repellents as needed.

• Pollination Type: Pollinated by bees and hummingbirds. The flowers may produce seed pods, though Hosta is primarily grown for its ornamental foliage.

• Astilbe
• Ferns
• Heuchera (Coral Bells)
• Tiarella (Foamflower)