Hosta 'Gold Standard'

Gold Standard Plantain Lily, Hosta, Plantain Lily

Hosta 'Gold Standard' — a classic medium to large variegated hosta valued for its chartreuse to golden-yellow leaf centers framed by dark green margins. The broad, heart-shaped leaves emerge greener in spring, then brighten steadily through summer, especially with some morning sun. Lavender flowers rise above the foliage in midsummer, adding soft seasonal color to this dependable shade perennial.

Type: Perennial

Mature Size:
Width: 36–48 in
Height: 20–24 in (to ~30 in in flower)

USDA Zones: 3a–8b

Form: Broad, mounded clump

Light: Partial shade to full shade; morning sun intensifies center color

Soil: Moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter

Water: Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil

Wildlife: Attracts hummingbirds and bees

Features & Landscape Uses:
One of the most widely grown gold-centered hostas, excellent for woodland gardens, shade borders, mass plantings, and foundation beds. The bright center color provides strong contrast with blue hostas, ferns, and darker shade perennials.

Care:
Provide fertile soil with consistent moisture and mulch annually. Morning sun enhances golden coloration, but avoid strong afternoon exposure. Remove spent flower stalks after bloom and clean away old foliage in early spring. Divide mature clumps every few years if needed. 🌿

Plant type

Perennial

Height

20-24"

Width

36-48"

Hardiness zones

3–9

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Mid Summer

Flower color

Blue, Lavender

Fall color

Chartreuse, Green, Yellow Green

Attracts

Hummingbirds

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Border, Container, Mass Planting, Rock Garden

Shape

Broad, Clump, Mounded

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No