Hosta Autumn Frost

The 'Autumn Frost' Hosta has the same qualities as its parent 'First Frost', but its remarkably variegated leaves have much wider yellow margins. It is a medium-sized variety, with thick leaves that are predominantly blue-green with wide yellow margins, remaining decorative until late in the season. Its summer flowering takes the form of erect spikes of pendulous lavender bells. It is a hardy perennial, perfect for adorning cool and shady areas of the garden, or even slightly sunny spots in very moist soil.

This Hosta, or Funkia 'Autumn Frost', is a grandchild of the famous 'Halcyon' Hosta, is a deciduous and very hardy perennial that only develops its above-ground growth from spring onwards. It belongs to the asparagus family. The plant forms a low and wide clump reaching a height of 40 cm (16in) and a width of 80-90 cm (32-35in). It is a long-lived plant with medium elongated ovate leaves with cordate bases, measuring approximately 18 cm (7in) long and 13 cm (5in) wide, with pointed tips. The lamina is marked by 8-10 pairs of parallel veins. Emerging from the variegated foliage in July-August are tall flowering stems of 70 cm (28in), bearing racemes of bell-shaped flowers, which are lightly scented.

Combine hostas with each other, marry them with ferns, Solomon's seals, and other low ground-covering perennials such as bugleweeds, geraniums, and dead nettles. They are all very effective as slug repellents. The silver-leaved Brunnera macrophylla 'Mr Morse' will be an excellent companion. Also consider the Heucheras and their fantastic range of colours, or the delicate flowers of fairy wings (Epimediums). This will enhance the shaded and slightly damp parts of the garden, creating a pleasant haven of freshness for the summer. Hostas also thrive in containers that should be placed in semi-shade and watered regularly. Around a pond, plant them with knotweeds, sedges, and astilbes. The blue-toned foliage harmonizes perfectly with the red and purple foliage of Japanese maples.

Did you know: Most species spread in Western gardens have been introduced from Japan. Hostas are edible and are called "urui" in Japan, where they are commonly consumed.