Hosta

Hosta Overview

The genus Hosta contains over 70 herbaceous perennial species. It originated in East-Central China and the species Plantaginea is still found there in the wild. Now seen across temperate climates of the Northern hemisphere, Hosta has been extensively cultivated, and many cultivars are available as a result. Their dense clumps of bold foliage are often variegated, the leaves being oval to heart-shaped, which can be any shade from light to dark green. Attractive cultivars have been produced with fantastically coloured foliage, sometimes bright yellow or blue-grey. Hosta produce typically funnel- or bell-shaped flowers, coloured purple or white most often; these are borne on upright stems, above the leaves, in early summer. Often grown as ground cover in shady places or in containers, some smaller species are suitable for rock gardens. Hostas are fully hardy, prefer shade, and like rich, moist, well-drained, neutral soil. Hostas are particularly prone to slugs and snails. All Hostas need some shade and few will thrive in open strong sunlight. A general rule is that the lighter foliage, the brighter the sunlight that will be tolerated. Variegated varieties tend to require more sun to keep their white, light green or gold stripes. The darker, bluer varieties need more shade. Once established, Hostas are pretty tough and will spread horizontally to make excellent ground cover.