Common Name: hosta
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Asparagaceae
Zone: 3 to 8
Height: 1.00 to 1.50 feet
Spread: 2.00 to 3.00 feet
Bloom Time: July to August
Bloom Description: Pale lavender
Sun: Part shade to full shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Flower: Showy
Attracts: Hummingbirds
Tolerate: Heavy Shade, Black Walnut
Culture
Easily grown in evenly moist, organically rich,
well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Best in part shade
(some morning sun or sun dappled conditions). Established plants have
some tolerance for dry shade (particularly plants with thick leaves),
but soils should never be allowed to dry out. Full size and quality
form are best achieved with consistent moisture. Water is best applied
directly to the soil beneath the leaves. Divide plants as needed in
spring or autumn. Division is usually easiest in early spring before
the leaves unfurl. Plant in locations protected from wind. Hostas are
generally considered to be low-maintenance perennials.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Hosta is a genus of about 70 species of
shade-loving, rhizomatous, clump-forming, herbaceous perennials which
are native to open woodlands, woodland margins and glades in Japan,
Korea, China and eastern Russia. Hostas are primarily grown for their
ornamental foliage. Stalked, conspicuously-veined, often dense, basal
leaves in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors and textures rise up from a
central rhizomatous crown to form a rounded to spreading mound of
foliage. Bell or funnel-shaped flowers in terminal, mostly one-sided
racemes bloom in late spring or summer atop vertical, unbranched,
usually leafless but frequently bracted scapes which rise upward from
the crown or rootstock to a point often well above the foliage mound.
Genus
name honors Austrian botanist Nicholas Thomas Host (1761-1834) and was
first established in 1812. The genus was subsequently renamed in 1817
as Funkia in honor of botanist Heinrich Christian Funk under the belief at that time that Hosta was an invalid name. Hosta was finally reinstated as the genus name in 1905 by the International Botanical Congress.
Funkia
remains a popular common name today in some areas. An additional
common name for plants in this genus is plantain lily (foliage is
somewhat plantain-like and flowers are somewhat lily-like in some
species).
'Mediovariegata' - The
Mediovariegata Hosta is not just a plant; it's an investment in the
beauty and health of your garden. Transform your shaded spaces into
vibrant havens with this stunning perennial that brings both aesthetic
appeal and ecological benefits.
Eye-Catching Foliage: This
Hosta is a true showstopper with its lush green leaves adorned with
crisp white stripes. This contrasting foliage adds a touch of
sophistication and depth to your garden, making it stand out in any
setting. Whether planted in borders, under trees, or in shaded corners,
its twisting leaves create an interesting texture that draws the eye.
Pollinator Magnet: In
early summer, the Mediovariegata Hosta produces tall spathes of
delicate purple flowers that not only look beautiful but also attract
beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These blooms add an
extra layer of interest and activity to your garden, promoting a
healthy ecosystem.
Uses
Hostas are a mainstay of shade gardens.
Notwithstanding the often showy flowers produced, hostas are primarily
grown in shady areas for the ornamental excellence of their foliage.
Very effective in groups or massed. Good background plant. Shady
borders, shade gardens or woodland gardens.