The Award-Winning Tropical Gem of the Shade Border
Hosta 'Island Breeze' is the 2022 Hosta of the Year as chosen by the American Hosta Growers Association — a distinction earned by one of the most visually striking small hostas in the tropical family. Walters Gardens introduced it as a sport of H. 'Paradise Island', bringing wider margins, thicker leaves, and stronger growth than its celebrated parent. The bright yellow centre contrasts dramatically against dark green margins in spring, then shifts to chartreuse or lighter yellow through summer depending on sun exposure. It performs reliably across Canadian hardiness zones 3 through 9.
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Colour: Bright yellow centre in spring shifting to chartreuse or lighter yellow in summer — dynamic seasonal interest that changes with the light.
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Margins: Wide, dark green margins that frame the glowing centre with crisp definition — wider than its parent H. 'Paradise Island'.
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Petioles: Showy red-speckled petioles — a signature trait of the tropical island family that adds colour even at the base of the plant.
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Flowers: Dark lavender blooms on reddish-green scapes — a striking floral contrast to the bold variegated foliage.
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Leaf Substance: Thicker leaves than its parent, with light corrugation and strong, vigorous growth.
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Size: 30 cm (12") tall × 46 cm (18") wide — a compact, tidy mound ideal for containers, mass plantings, and border edges.
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Hardiness: Zones 3–9 — reliably cold-hardy across Canada.
| Feature |
Specification |
| Size (H × W) |
30 cm × 46 cm (12" × 18") |
| Hardiness Zone |
3–9 |
| Colour |
Yellow to chartreuse centre, dark green margin |
| Light Requirements |
Partial to full shade; morning sun intensifies yellow |
Grower's Tip: 'Island Breeze' handles Canadian winters with ease from Zone 3 through 9, and a touch of morning sun deepens the yellow centre beautifully without scorching the margins. At our nursery in Bécancour, QC, we verify the signature red-speckled petioles and bright yellow centre before shipping. Our True to Type standard means you receive the authentic Walters Gardens selection — the genuine 2022 Hosta of the Year.
