Hosta Honeybells

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 brought back from Japan and then from Korea. But these Liliaceae can also be found in northern China and eastern Siberia. They are also commonly called Plantain Lily because of their foliage.
Shade plants of excellence, they are cultivated for their highly decorative basal foliage. Hosta Honeybells has pale green cordate (heart-shaped) leaves that are deeply veined and measure an average of 30 cm (12in). The parallel veins are very specific to this family. This variety spreads over 120 cm (47in) in width, making it an excellent groundcover. From September to October, a series of long stems that overshadow the leafy clump bear a terminal cluster of white flowers that are slightly pendulous and measure 3 to 5 cm (1 to 2in). Unusually for Hostas, the flowers of this variety are highly fragrant, reminiscent of orange blossom. Hostas prefer rich loamy soils, even heavy and clay soils, as long as they remain slightly moist. If they are happy, they will remain in place for years without requiring any special care.

Pair them with the gold of Geranium phaeum Margaret Wilson, with wild garlic, with the old pink of Digitalis mertonensis, or with the purple fronds of the Athyrium niponicum Pictum fern. All are very effective as slug repellents. Lobelia speciosa Russian Princess and the familiar silver Brunnera macrophylla Mr Morse will be excellent companions. Also consider Heucheras and their fantastic range of colours, or the delicate flowers of Epimediums. This way, you will enhance the shaded and slightly damp parts of the garden. Hostas also thrive in pots, which should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly.
Important to know: the lighter the leaves of hostas, the less they fear the sunlight. Dark leaves, especially blue ones, are more sensitive to sunlight, 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, which prefer partial shade rather than full shade. In fact, without a minimum of sun, they will not flower. It would be a shame to miss out on these magnificent flowers so, the key is to find a harmonious compromise between light and darkness.