| Info | Some hostas exhibit a bold, demanding attitude in the garden, while others make their presence known in a more alluring, stately manner, requiring no fanfare. Such is the case with our 2004 introduction, 'Benediction.' As a matter of etymology, the Latin meaning of the word "benediction" is literally the "good word," which we feel aptly fits. This beautiful, shimmering gold ultimately forms a symmetrical, stately clump about 4' across and 22" high, while the leaf placement displays a pleasing, embricated effect. The leaves themselves are extremely uniform in size and shape. Distinctly ventricular with pronounced, impressed veining, the foliage has precisely cut, clean edging. As our picture indicates, a mature clump develops the same sort of precise puckering between veins. Chameleon-like, 'Benediction' emerges a pure golden chartreuse and then assumes its early summer metamorphosis, becoming a softly shimmering gold. Of added interest, a mature clump will occasionally exhibit leaves with dark green flares/streaks. Perhaps due to this tendency we already have at least one sport which we have identified for future introduction, as well as others we are evaluating. Everything about 'Benediction' is pleasing--clean, precise, uniform and stately with alluring, beckoning color quality for those shady, darker corners, or along a path to be viewed in evening light. While beautiful at any time of day, we are especially drawn to its softly shimmering presence as light fades, incanting the perfect benediction to a summer's day. |