Hosta Ruffed Up

Of medium size, Hosta 'Ruffed Up' has all the charm with its bumpy, wavy and undulate leaves. It appears green in shade, but lightens in partial shade and turns golden yellow in the sun. It is a Hosta that tolerates sunny exposure, but not scorching sun. Its summer flowers, in spikes adorned with mauve bells, adds to its charm. It will make a big impression as a plant in a bed or in a pot.

This Hosta Ruffed Up is a completely hardy perennial plant that belongs to the lily family or the hosta family. This variety comes from Hosta 'Bottom Line' which has passed on good growth qualities and its tolerance to the sun. It was obtained by Monty and Julie Carlson in 2009. It spreads out into a fairly large clump. The plant, mature in 5 years, reaches 60 cm (24in) in height and 80 cm (32in) in width. Its leaves measure 22 cm (9in) x 15 cm (6in). They are oval and pointed, bumpy and very undulate. Their colour ranges from medium green in shade to golden yellow in the sun, passing through lime green. The base of its petioles is tinged with red. The undulation and wavy texture of this variety give it all its charm. The flowering takes place in August and September, in the form of elongated lavender-coloured bells. This perennial spreads by stolons, similar to strawberries. It is a long-lived plant.

On the edge of the undergrowth, sheltered from the wind, where the soil is deep and fertile, this Ruffed Up Hosta pairs well with ferns, meadow rues and Claytonia sibirica, forming beautiful colourful duos that require little maintenance. It will also thrive alongside acteas with purple foliage, columbines. If you plant it in more sun, in consistently moist soil, it appreciates the company of digitalis and Iris pseudacorus near a water source. All hostas grow well in pots and can remain in the same container for several years.

Most of the species found in our gardens have been introduced from Japan. Edible, hostas are called 'urui' in Japan where they are commonly consumed.