Rainforest Sunrise - Hosta

Hosta ‘Rainforest Sunrise’ is a clump-forming perennial grown for foliage that changes color as it opens. Light-green leaves develop deep-green margins and bright gold centers; the thick, glossy blades become cupped and puckered, and light-lavender flowers rise on scapes in midsummer. Published garden size is about 9–12 inches tall and 15–18 inches wide; [Walters Gardens](https://www.waltersgardens.com/photo_essay.php?ID=96&view=Slideshow) describes its cultivar traits, and [Acorn Farms](https://www.acornfarms.com/responsive/velocity/15AFcategories.php?pullname=HOSTA+RAINFOREST+SUNRISE) lists mature dimensions and shade exposure. ## Garden Use Use as a bright focal plant in a shaded border, woodland planting, or container. Walters identifies it as a sport of Hosta ‘Maui Buttercups’ and notes red-speckled petioles on mature plants; its gold-centered leaves contrast well with solid green or blue hostas. The foliage is reported to hold through the season and to be less attractive to slugs than thinner leaves. ## Growing Conditions Grow in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial to full shade. The leaves stay cleanest away from hot afternoon sun, while filtered light or gentle morning sun can show the gold centers. Water during dry spells and refresh organic mulch in spring to moderate soil moisture. [RHS guidance](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/237408/hosta-rainforest-sunrise-v/details) recommends shade, soil that does not dry out, and annual spring mulch. ## Maintenance Divide in early spring or late summer if a clump needs lifting. Remove collapsed leaves after dormancy and watch for slug or snail feeding; routine pruning of living foliage is unnecessary. The RHS cultivar profile gives propagation and cleanup guidance for this selection.