Hosta
Hosta spp.
Also known as
Plantain Lily, Funkia
Hosta sieboldiana Elegans2UME by Epibase (CC BY 2.5)
Partial Shade
Easy care
Moderate watering
Frost Hardy
6a
USDA zone
-23°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
1m | Max | 1.2m |
30cm | Min | 30cm |
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images of 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 found across temperate climates of the Northern hemisphere, Hosta has been extensively cultivated and many garden specimens are available as a result. Their dense clumps of bold foliage comprise often variegated, oval to heart-shaped leaves that can be any shade from light to dark green, attractive cultivars have been produced with fantastically coloured foliage, sometimes bright yellow or blue-grey. They 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 particularly prone to slugs and snails.
Common problems with Hosta
Virus infections may be a problem for some species
How to propagate Hosta
Seed
Seeds can be collected and sown, but the resulting plants may be very different from the parents. Sow seeds in spring.
Division
Divide clumps every 4 or 5 years in late summer or early spring. Ensure each section has 1 to 3 good buds and trim away damaged roots. Replant at their original depth in the ground with the shoots just poking through the soil. Water and apply a granular feed.
Special features of Hosta
Attractive flowers
Attractive leaves
Other uses of Hosta
Grown for their decorative foliage. Form large clumps that are excellent for ground cover. Attracts humming birds in suitable geographical locations.
