Hosta Adorable

The 'Adorable' Hosta, which lives up to its name, is a medium-sized variety with particularly decorative foliage, composed of shiny chartreuse green leaves irregularly marginated with dark green. Its summer flowering takes the form of large, highly fragrant white spikes. Colour and fragrance, as well as hardiness and robustness, characterise this superb perennial, a classic feature of cool shade gardens.

This 'Adorable' Hosta is a herbaceous perennial plant from the lily family or the hosta family according to classifications. It is a seedling of the famous Hosta 'Royal Standard' that reaches 50-60 cm (20-24in) in height and spreads up to almost 60 cm (24in) in width, forming a beautiful bushy clump from spring to autumn. The leaves are heart-shaped with a pointed tip, slightly wavy in texture, with prominent veins, carried by a rigid petiole. From August to September, a series of long stems rise among the leaves, each bearing a terminal cluster of pendulous white flowers tinged with lilac, measuring 5 to 8 cm (2 to 3in) in length. Rather unusually for Hostas, the flowers of this variety are highly fragrant, with a fragrance reminiscent of orange blossom. Hostas thrive in rich loamy soils, even heavy clay soils, as long as they remain slightly moist, even in summer. If they are happy, they will remain in place for years without requiring any special care.

Combine this 'Adorable' Hosta with the gold of the perennial Geranium phaeum 'Margaret Wilson', the dusky pink of Digitalis mertonensis, or the purple fronds of the Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum' fern. All of them are highly effective as slug repellents. The silver-leaved Brunnera macrophylla 'Mr Morse', familiar in woodland settings, will be excellent company. Also consider the Heucheras and their fantastic range of colours, or the delicate fairy flowers (Epimediums). This will enhance the shaded and slightly damp areas of the garden, creating a pleasant haven of freshness for the summer. Hostas also thrive in containers, which should be placed in semi-shade and watered regularly.