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Herbaceous perennial
Asparagaceae
Shade perennials
Paul’s Glory hosta
Hosta hybrid
Paul’s Glory hosta is a large shade perennial with heart-shaped, lightly corrugated foliage. Its centre changes from chartreuse to golden yellow and later toward cream, while the broad blue-green margin becomes darker. The clump reaches about 60 to 65 cm (24 to 26 in) high and 125 to 140 cm (49 to 55 in) wide. In summer, scapes measuring 80 to 100 cm (31 to 39 in) carry pale lavender flowers visited by hummingbirds and bees. Hardy in Zone 3 to 8, this award-winning cultivar prefers partial shade, rich moist soil and reliable drainage. It suits borders, woodland gardens and large containers where its changing variegation can be appreciated throughout the growing season.
- Exposure
- Partial shade
- Life cycle
- Hardy perennial
- Hardiness
- Zone 3 to 8
Discover the plant
Common namePaul’s Glory hosta
FamilyAsparagaceae
GenusHosta
CultivarPaul’s Glory
TypeHerbaceous perennial
Botanical nameHosta hybrid
Paul’s Glory Hosta (Hosta ‘Paul’s Glory’) forms a large rounded clump with spectacular foliage. The centre of each heart-shaped, lightly corrugated leaf changes from spring chartreuse to golden yellow and may mature toward cream, while the broad blue-green margin gradually darkens. A mature clump reaches about 60 to 65 cm (24 to 26 in) high and 125 to 140 cm (49 to 55 in) wide. Scapes measuring 80 to 100 cm (31 to 39 in) carry pale lavender flowers in summer. This celebrated cultivar was selected as the 1999 Hosta of the Year.
Paul’s Glory prefers partial shade or light shade but tolerates several hours of gentle sun when the soil stays fresh. Some morning light often intensifies the golden colouring, whereas hot afternoon sun can scorch pale portions of the leaves. Plant it in rich, humus-filled, moist but well-drained soil with the crown level with the surrounding ground. Water consistently during establishment and dry periods without leaving the roots waterlogged. Hardy in Zone 3 to 8, this hosta needs little maintenance once established and can remain undisturbed for several years before division is useful. A spring compost layer supports its generous foliage without excessive feeding.
This large perennial provides structure in shade beds, designed woodland gardens, fresh borders and plantings near a patio. Its lavender flowers attract hummingbirds, bees and other pollinators. Pair the golden foliage with ferns, dark-leaved coral bells, silver brunneras, astilbes or Japanese forest grass. The leaves have good substance and show some slug resistance, although no hosta is entirely protected. Deer generally find hostas appealing. All parts also contain saponins that are toxic to dogs and cats, so this ornamental should not be presented as pet friendly. Thoughtful placement preserves its broad leaves while keeping curious animals away from the clump.
Planting guide
From planting to establishment.
Spacing / density
125 to 140 cm (49 to 55 in)
Best planting time
Spring or early fall
Propagation
Clump division in spring or fall
Growing method
For best results, plant Paul’s Glory in spring or early fall in partial shade or light shade. Morning light often encourages a more golden centre, but protection from hot afternoon sun prevents scorching. Loosen an area wider than the root ball and incorporate mature compost into poor soil. Set the crown level with the surrounding ground, then allow 125 to 140 cm (49 to 55 in) for the mature spread. Backfill without excessive compaction and water slowly to remove air pockets. Keep the soil evenly moist during the first season without allowing water to collect around the roots. An organic mulch 5 to 7 cm (2 to 3 in) deep conserves moisture but should remain clear of the crown. In spring, a compost layer or balanced slow-release fertilizer is generally sufficient. Watch for slugs as young leaves unfold even though this cultivar has good substance. After flowering, scapes may be removed or left until they fade. Wait until foliage yellows after frost before cleaning it away. Division every four or five years is useful only if the clump becomes too broad or begins thinning at the centre. Replant vigorous sections at their original depth and water them consistently until new roots establish.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Soil pH
Slightly acidic to mildly alkaline
Care level
Easy
Watering
Water deeply after planting and keep the soil evenly moist during establishment. Afterwards, water when the top few centimetres begin to dry, especially during hot periods or beneath competing trees. Direct moisture toward the soil to keep leaves clean. Avoid repeated shallow watering and standing water. Check containers more often because the broad foliage increases water loss and potting mix dries faster than garden soil.
Soil type
Paul’s Glory prefers rich, humus-filled, moist and well-drained soil. Loam amended with compost or decomposed leaves supports its broad foliage. Soil may be slightly acidic, neutral or mildly alkaline, but it should retain consistent moisture without becoming waterlogged. Beneath trees, monitor competition from roots. An organic mulch reduces drying when kept away from the crown and renewed only as it decomposes.
Fertilization
In spring, add a layer of mature compost around the clump or apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer according to the label. Moderate nutrition supports the development of broad leaves without making them excessively soft. Avoid nitrogen-heavy feeding, which may increase slug damage. In containers, a diluted water-soluble fertilizer can be used during active growth and then reduced by late summer as the hosta begins preparing for dormancy.
Moisture
Average to high
Seasonal care
In spring, remove the previous year’s foliage if it was not cleaned away after frost. Work carefully around new shoots because they break easily as they emerge. Add compost or a light application of balanced slow-release fertilizer, then renew mulch without covering the crown. Watch for slugs as leaves unfold; Paul’s Glory has good substance, but no cultivar is completely immune. During summer, keep the soil moist in dry periods and observe leaf edges. Browning can indicate insufficient water or overly intense sun. Flower scapes may remain for hummingbirds and bees, then be cut when they become faded. In fall, allow the foliage to yellow naturally so the plant can recover stored energy. Remove it after a hard frost or in early spring to reduce shelter for slugs. In cold regions, mulch applied after the ground freezes helps limit freeze-thaw cycles, especially around young plants. Containers should be protected from drying winds while retaining open drainage during thaws. Every four or five years, divide in spring or early fall only when the clump becomes too broad, loses vigour or thins at the centre. A healthy plant can otherwise remain undisturbed for many seasons. Continue checking soil moisture beneath mature trees because their roots can rapidly draw water away from the hosta during warm weather. Replenish organic mulch when it becomes thin.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
At least 55 to 60 cm (22 to 24 in) in diameter
Paul’s Glory can grow in a container, but its broad mature spread requires a stable pot at least 55 to 60 cm (22 to 24 in) in diameter with generous depth. Choose a container with several drainage holes and fill it with rich, airy, freely draining potting mix. Set the crown level with the surface, then place the pot in partial shade or gentle morning light. Water thoroughly and let all excess moisture escape. Check moisture often in summer because the broad foliage loses considerable water and the mix should never dry completely. A thin mulch preserves freshness without covering the centre. Add compost or a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring, then avoid nitrogen-heavy feeding. Remove damaged leaves and monitor for slugs around the pot. For Canadian winter, place the container beside a sheltered wall, group it with other pots or insulate its sides after dormancy. Drainage holes must remain open during thaws. The plant can also be moved into the garden in early fall. An undrained decorative vessel should serve only as a cachepot when the inner growing container can drain without leaving roots in water. Refresh the upper mix layer in spring before new shoots expand.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
60 to 65 cm (24 to 26 in); 80 to 100 cm (31 to 39 in) in bloom
Width / spread
125 to 140 cm (49 to 55 in)
Flower color
Pale lavender
Foliage color
Chartreuse to gold then creamy centre with blue-green margin
Foliage type
Deciduous
Growth rate
Moderate
Growth habit
Large rounded spreading clump
Fragrance
Not fragrant
Bloom period
In midsummer, scapes measuring 80 to 100 cm (31 to 39 in) rise above the foliage and carry pale lavender bell-shaped flowers. Their airy outline contrasts with the broad mass of leaves. The blooms attract hummingbirds, bees and other pollinating insects. Scapes can remain throughout flowering and then be cut cleanly when they become faded, or retained until seed capsules form if their appearance is desired.
Fruiting
Inconspicuous capsules after flowering
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Combine Paul’s Glory with ferns, dark-leaved coral bells, silver brunneras, astilbes, hellebores, lungworts and Japanese forest grass. These plants generally appreciate partial shade and moist organic soil. Their fine textures, dark or silver foliage and staggered bloom seasons emphasize the hosta’s golden centre. These pairings are based on compatible growing needs and visual interest; they do not guarantee automatic protection against slugs, deer or diseases. Preserve enough space so vigorous companions do not cover the emerging shoots or broad mature leaves.
Plants to avoid
Around Hosta ‘Paul’s Glory’, especially avoid neighbors that would cover its leaves or strongly compete with its root ball. Compatibility in terms of light, water, and spread takes precedence over a list of so-called enemy plants.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
What light is best for Paul’s Glory hosta?
Paul’s Glory prefers partial shade or light shade. Two to four hours of gentle morning sun can intensify the golden centre when the soil remains moist. Hot afternoon sun may scorch yellow or creamy portions, especially during a dry period. Very dense shade protects the leaves but may keep the centre more chartreuse and reduce flowering. Observe the plant: browned edges often indicate excessive sun or insufficient water. In a Canadian garden, an east-facing position, a site beneath a light tree canopy or filtered shade generally offers the best balance of colour, cool soil and vigorous growth. Container plants can be moved if seasonal light becomes unexpectedly intense.
How large does Paul’s Glory hosta become?
A mature clump reaches about 60 to 65 cm (24 to 26 in) high and 125 to 140 cm (49 to 55 in) wide. Flower scapes rise higher, generally between 80 and 100 cm (31 to 39 in). This broad size develops gradually over several years, so a newly purchased container plant will be much smaller. Allow for the final spread at planting to prevent leaves from covering a path or smaller perennials. Generous spacing also improves air circulation and displays the rounded form. Container growth may be more restricted, and division can become necessary sooner when roots fill the available soil volume.
Does Paul’s Glory resist slugs and deer?
Paul’s Glory leaves have good substance and are often less damaged by slugs than thinner hosta foliage. This resistance is relative, and young leaves can still develop holes, especially in a wet spring. Remove debris where slugs shelter, water in the morning and inspect the base regularly. Deer, by contrast, generally seek hostas and can consume a clump quickly. This cultivar is therefore not classified as deer resistant. In a frequently browsed area, a physical barrier, discreet netting or another appropriate protection strategy is more reliable than simply combining the hosta with companion plants. Check local regulations before using any wildlife deterrent product.
Can Paul’s Glory hosta grow in a container?
Yes, but its broad spread requires a stable container at least 55 to 60 cm (22 to 24 in) in diameter, with useful depth and several drainage holes. Use rich, airy potting mix, place the pot in partial shade and keep the substrate moist without leaving water in the saucer. Broad foliage increases water needs during hot periods. For Canadian winter, protect the container sides, position it out of drying winds and keep drainage open during thaws. Moving the plant into the garden in early fall is another option when the pot becomes too small. Divide only when needed, then retain vigorous sections with healthy roots.
Is Paul’s Glory hosta safe around pets?
No. Hostas contain saponins and are classified as toxic to dogs, cats and horses when eaten. Possible signs include vomiting, diarrhea and depression. Paul’s Glory should therefore be treated as an ornamental that is not pet friendly and not as an edible plant. Position it where curious animals cannot chew the leaves. If a pet consumes the plant or develops symptoms, promptly contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service. Slug-control products used around hostas must also be selected and applied with great care near pets. Never assume a product is safe simply because it is marketed for garden use; always follow its label.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
Attracts birds
Yes
Reported toxicity
Yes
Supporting wildlife
The pale lavender flowers of Paul’s Glory attract hummingbirds, bees, bumblebees and other pollinating insects in midsummer. Scapes can remain throughout bloom to support these visits. Deer, however, often seek the foliage, so protection may be needed where browsing pressure is high. Avoid applying insecticides to open flowers while pollinators are active around the clump.
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