Hosta 'Sum and Substance' is a large leafed variety known for its chartreuse to gold foliage and impressive size. Its thick corrugated leaves offer strong presence in shade gardens and are more resistant to pests than thinner leafed hostas.
Height & Spread: 24 - 30 in x 36 - 72 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade; tolerates some sun with sufficient moisture
Soil Preference: Rich, well drained soil with ample organic content
Watering Needs: Moderate; consistent moisture encourages lush growth
Deer Resistance: Low to moderate
Native Status
Not native to North America. This cultivar is a hybrid selection from Asian hosta species, valued for its ornamental foliage and garden performance.
Wildlife & Insects
Bees
- Fragrant lavender flowers attract native bees and honeybees for pollen and nectar in midsummer.
Hummingbirds
- Occasionally visit the tall flower scapes, especially in quiet shaded areas of the garden.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 36 - 48 in apart to allow the full mature spread and showcase its dramatic foliage.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent as a specimen in shade gardens, along woodland borders, or in mass plantings for bold texture and foliage contrast.
Companion Plants
- Astilboides tabularis (Shield Leaf) - Massive leaves complement the scale of 'Sum and Substance' in moist shaded areas.
- Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' (Variegated Solomon's Seal) - Adds elegant arching form and white variegation beneath the hosta canopy.
- Rodgersia pinnata (Rodgersia) - Bold, textured leaves and pink flower plumes create a dramatic pairing in large shade beds.
- Ligularia dentata 'Britt-Marie Crawford' (Leopard Plant) - Deep bronze foliage and orange blooms offer striking contrast in moist soils.
- Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Ground hugging foliage and airy spring blooms provide soft edging around larger hostas.