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Gerald L. Klingaman
Liliaceae
Hosta plantaginea
Hosta, Plantain Lily
This entry has yet to be reviewed and approved by L2G editors.
Arguably, there is no better perennial for shade. Hosta is a clump forming herbaceous ornamental grown mostly for its attractive foliage. The genus originates from Asia and is comprised of approximately 40 species and thousands of hybrid cultivars.
Throughout the growing season they present clumps of foliage in various shades of green, blue, blue-gray or gold. Some also have variegated markings of white, cream or gold. Their flowers are variable, but are generally trumpet, funnel or bell-shaped and appear on tall, sturdy stems. These may be lavender or white and appear from spring to fall, depending on the variant.
Overall, Hosta grow best in partially shaded sites and tolerate a wide range of soil types. They are best used in shaded perennial gardens or massed as a groundcover.
9 - 2
3 - 9
A2, A3, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Perennial
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade
Asia
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
Average
Clay, Loam, Sand
Medium
Average Water
Clump-Forming
Spring, Summer, Fall
Showy
White, Lavender, Ivory
Slate Gray, Steel Blue
Yes
No
Single
Bold
Container, Edging, Feature Plant, Groundcover, Mixed Border
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