Hosta Midnight at the Oasis

Hosta 'Midnight at the Oasis' resembles its parent, the hosta Pathfinder, with its well-contrasted colours, white with a dark green border, but the centres of its leaves develop green spots as the summer progresses. The hotter the summer, the greener this central area becomes. It is a medium-sized variety, but vigorous, with thick leaves that discourage slugs. In summer, its beautiful variegated foliage is covered with lavender bell-shaped spikes. This hosta, which offers a rare combination of colours, truly stands out in the garden or in a pot on the patio. It should be grown in shade or partial shade, in rich and moist soil.

Hosta 'Midnight at the Oasis' is a hardy deciduous perennial, with its above-ground growth emerging from the ground in spring. It belongs to the asparagus family. The plant, which grows quite slowly, has a good lifespan and forms a mound of leaves that reaches about 35 cm (14in) in height and 55 cm (22in) in width. It develops almost perfect heart-shaped leaves with pointed tips. Their slightly wavy and glossy lamina is marked by 6 pairs of deep veins. Flowers emerge from the centre of its variegated foliage in July-August, with stems about 50 cm (20in) high, bearing clusters of bell-shaped lavender flowers, which are not fragrant.

Combine them in groups with other hostas, ferns, delphiniums, Solomon's seal, and other low-growing groundcover perennials such as creeping bugle, geraniums, and lamiums. All of these are highly effective as slug repellents. The silver-leaved Brunnera macrophylla Mr Morse, which is familiar in woodland settings, makes an excellent companion. Also consider Heucheras with their wonderful range of colours, or the delicate flowers of Epimediums. The golden foliage contrasts beautifully with their red and orange tones. Hostas also thrive in pots that should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly. Hostas complement spring bulbs, appearing in late spring to cover faded plants with their generous foliage! Plant them around a pond with persicarias, carex, and astilbes. The blue-toned leaves harmonise perfectly with the red and purple foliage of Japanese maples.

Did you know: Most of the species commonly found in Western gardens were introduced from Japan. Hostas are edible and are known as urui in Japan, where they are commonly consumed.