Hosta Elisabeth

The Hostas are herbaceous perennial 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 from 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 bright green leaves with well-undulated edges of Hosta 'Elisabeth' are deeply veined and measure an average of 20 cm (8in). The parallel veination is very specific to this family. This variety spreads up to 60 cm (24in) 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 pendulous amethyst 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 remain in place for years without requiring special care.

Pair them with the gold of Perennial Geranium 'Margaret Wilson', with wild garlic, with the old pink of Merton Digitalis, 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 think of the Heucheras and their wonderful range of colours, or the delicate fairy flowers (Epidemiums). 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 leaves of hostas, the less they fear sunlight. Dark leaves, especially blue ones, are more sensitive to it, and the heat makes them lose the waxy film responsible for their colour. A few hours of sun per day, even partial, are more than enough for these plants that prefer dappled shade rather than full shade. In fact, without a minimum of sun, they will not flower.