Hosta Christmas Tree

Hostas are perennial herbaceous plants with deciduous foliage that reproduce from rhizomes and stolons. They differ in size, texture, and colour. Originally from East Asia, they were first taken from Japan and then Korea. But these Liliaceae are also found in northern China and eastern Siberia. They are also commonly called Funkia or Plantain Lily because of their foliage.

Plants for shade par excellence, they are cultivated for their highly decorative basal foliage. The dark green leaves marginated with white of the Hosta 'Christmas Tree' are deeply veined and measure an average of 20 cm (8in). The parallel veining is very specific to this family. This variety spreads up to 140 cm (55in) in width, making it an excellent ground cover. From July to September, a series of long stems overhanging the leafy clump bear a terminal cluster of slightly pendant lavender flowers measuring 2 to 3 cm (1in). Despite their resemblance to lily flowers, they are completely odourless. Hostas prefer rich loamy soils, even heavy and clayey ones as long as they remain slightly moist. If they are happy, they will stay in place for years without requiring special care.

Pair them with the gold of the perennial Geranium phaeum 'Margaret Wilson', with wild garlic, with the old pink of the Digitales mertonensis, or with the purple fronds of the Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum' fern. All are very effective as slug repellents. The Lobelia speciosa 'Russian Princess' and the familiar silver Brunnera macrophylla 'Mr Morse' of the undergrowth will be excellent companions. Also consider Heucheras and their fantastic range of colors, or the delicate flowers of the Epimediums. This way, you will enhance the shaded and slightly damp parts of the garden by creating a pleasant haven of freshness for the summer. Hostas also thrive in pots that should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly.

Important note: the lighter the hosta leaves, the less they fear sunlight. Dark leaves, especially blue ones, are more sensitive to it and heat makes them lose the waxy film responsible for their colour. A few hours of sun per day, even dappled, are sufficient for these plants that prefer partial rather than full shade. In fact, without a minimum of sun, they will not flower. It would be a shame to miss out on beautiful flowers. The key is to find a harmonious compromise between light and darkness.