With her lush leaves in shades of green, blue, and lime, she brings peace and elegance to every garden. Hosta is my faithful companion in my shady borders. Each year, the plants only become more beautiful.
In the end, we call her Hosta
When you come across old botanical illustrations and see that a Hosta is depicted, you may find another name written underneath. For example, Hemerocallis – people initially thought the plant belonged to that family. Or you might see Funkia, named after Heinrich Christian Funck. This name was widely used in the 19th century and still appears in old gardening books. In some parts of Europe, this designation is even used today.
In 1812, the plant was officially named after the botanist Nicolaus Host. Eventually, Hosta was established as the valid and internationally recognised genus name.
From few to many
There are more than 7,000 Hosta cultivars registered by the American Hosta Society. Incredible, isn’t it? Especially when you consider that this small genus consists of only about 25 botanical species.
Hostas are native to the wooded and wet areas of Japan, China, Korea, and eastern Siberia.
King of Shade
Hostas are among the best shade plants in the world. They can form lush foliage even in quite dark corners – something very few ornamental plants can do without losing their shape.
Blue Hostas are also green
Some Hostas have a beautiful blue colour. This is not pigment, but a waxy coating that forms on the green leaf. This layer refracts the light, giving the leaf a bluish hue.
Heavy rain or too much sun can cause this coating to disappear, turning the leaves green again.
Tips for the most beautiful part-shade border
Vary in height, leaf shape, and colour for a lively border. Hostas have broad leaves and wonderful colours. They combine beautifully with other plants that thrive under the same conditions, such as:
Ferns – contrast with fine, feathery foliage
Heuchera – adds height and colour contrast
Astilbe – provides plumes that rise above the border
Delphinium – tall flower spikes that stand among the ferns and Hostas
Spring bulbs – add colour to the border before the Hosta emerges
New and striking
No broad leaves but wavy, narrow ones! Hosta ‘Silly String’ has a bluish tint that turns blue-green as the season progresses. Hosta ‘Party Streamers’ has a fresh yellow-green colour.
These Hostas establish quickly and keep their shape.
With her lush leaves in shades of green, blue, and lime, she brings peace and elegance to every garden. Hosta is my faithful companion in my shady borders. Each year, the plants only become more beautiful.
