The Gold Regal Hosta is a favored perennial, celebrated for its distinctive foliage and robust nature. Its unique visual appeal and adaptability make it a popular choice for enhancing various landscape designs.
Unique Characteristics
The Gold Regal Hosta is recognized for its erect leaf stalks that support oval, slightly concave leaves. These leaves emerge pale green in spring and gradually transition to a vibrant chartreuse or golden hue as the season progresses, particularly with more sun exposure. The foliage is characterized by a slightly wavy, corrugated, and cupped texture, possessing a good substance. This hosta typically forms large, upright, vase-shaped clumps, reaching about 24 to 32 inches in height and spreading up to 36 to 63 inches wide at maturity. Tall, sturdy spikes of grayish-purple or lavender, bell-shaped flowers emerge in mid-summer, reaching up to 50 inches tall.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Gold Regal Hosta thrives in conditions offering part shade to full sun, with morning sun exposure often intensifying its golden coloration. While it can tolerate more sun than blue-leafed hostas, excessive afternoon sun can lead to leaf damage. The plant prefers rich, well-drained soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Incorporating organic matter, such as compost, significantly improves soil structure and nutrient content, which is beneficial for hosta growth. Gold Regal Hosta grows well in a soil pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It is hardy across USDA Zones 3 through 9.
Care and Maintenance
Consistent watering is important for Gold Regal Hosta, especially during dry periods, with established plants generally requiring about 1 to 2 inches of water per week. Deep watering encourages a robust root system, and it is best to apply water directly to the soil to avoid damaging the foliage and attracting pests. Newly planted hostas benefit from bi-weekly watering for the first month to aid establishment. Fertilization supports vigorous growth, and a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formulation, applied in early spring as new growth emerges, is often recommended. Over-fertilizing, particularly with high-nitrogen products, can lead to soft foliage that is more susceptible to disease.
Slugs and snails are common pests for hostas, as they feed on the leaves, leaving noticeable holes. Preventative measures include maintaining a tidy garden by removing decaying vegetation and using barriers of sharp gravel or copper. Organic slug baits containing iron phosphate or shallow traps filled with beer can effectively manage infestations.
Deadheading the flower scapes after blooming helps redirect the plant’s energy towards root development and foliage growth. To deadhead, simply cut the spent flower stalks near the base. Division for propagation or rejuvenation is best performed in early spring when new shoots are just a few inches high.