Hosta 'Sum of All' is an exceptionally large and showy variety with bright gold leaves edged in vivid green. Known for its strong growth and deeply corrugated foliage that add dramatic texture and bold color to shade gardens.
Height & Spread: 30 - 36 in x 60 - 72 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade; tolerates some morning sun
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, organically rich soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; benefits from consistent moisture especially in heat
Deer Resistance: Low to moderate
Native Status
Not native to North America. This cultivar is a hybridized sport developed from Asian species, primarily cultivated for ornamental use in shade landscapes.
Wildlife & Insects
Bees
- Lavender blooms atop tall scapes provide nectar and pollen to native bees and honeybees in midsummer.
Hummingbirds
- May briefly visit the pale flowers during summer, especially in calm, shaded garden spaces.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 48 - 60 in apart to showcase full mature spread and allow airflow between plants.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal as a bold specimen in large shade borders, under trees, or in foundation beds where size and vibrant foliage create focal interest.
Companion Plants
- Aralia cordata 'Sun King' (Golden Japanese Spikenard) - Adds bright golden foliage that complements the variegation of 'Sum of All'.
- Dryopteris erythrosora (Autumn Fern) - Offers lacy fronds and seasonal bronze tones to contrast hosta textures.
- Ligularia 'The Rocket' (Ligularia) - Tall yellow flower spikes and bold foliage pair well in moist, shady conditions.
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' (Siberian Bugloss) - Provides silvery heart shaped leaves and small blue flowers for multi season contrast.
- Epimedium x rubrum (Barrenwort) - Low growing form and spring blooms fill in beneath the towering foliage of large hostas.