Hosta Pilgrim

Hosta 'Pilgrim' is a small-sized variety with a fairly spreading habit, with a dense clump of grey-green leaves with wide and irregular yellow margins that become creamy white in summer with a grey-green halo between the two colour zones. The heart-shaped leaves are strongly veined with undulated edges, giving it a relaxed charm. In mid-summer, slender pendulous lavender bell-shaped flower spikes rise distinctly above its clump. This perennial is well suited for bordering shaded beds, container gardening, and even damp rock gardens. It is a vigorous fast-growing hybrid that is particularly slug resistant. Ideally, it should be planted in a rich, well-drained, moist soil and exposed to morning sun to fully enjoy its flowers and colourful foliage.

Hosta 'Pilgrim' is a vigorous hybrid of the Hosta 'Flamboyant'. This Hosta, is a deciduous perennial that produces its leafy clump in spring. It belongs to the asparagus family. The plant forms a spreading cushion reaching 20 cm (8in) in height and 50 cm (20in) in width. It is a long-lived plant with oval leaves that have cordate bases, reaching about 11 cm (4in) in height and 9 cm (4in) in width, with pointed tips. Its lamina is plicate with 6 pairs of deep veins.  Flower stems, about 50 cm (20in) tall, emerge from the centre of its variegated foliage in July-August, bearing clusters of lavender bell-shaped flowers which are slightly fragrant.

Hostas prefer moist, well-drained, and rich soils, and they absolutely dislike drought and scorching exposures. An afternoon sunlit location should be avoided, as it can burn the leaves of these perennials. In hotter and drier regions, a thick mulch should be provided. Hostas, with their generous and decorative foliage, are perfect as ground covers, borders, or in partially shaded to shaded beds, where other plants struggle to grow. In fact, they prefer sheltered and cool locations such as woodlands. Varieties with blue and green foliage tolerate dense shade better. Sun tends to turn blue colors green. Lighter foliage thrives in partial shade where their color transforms and lightens with increased sunlight. In general, morning sun exposure allows these perennials to develop optimally and makes them more floriferous. Gastropods (slugs and snails), which are particularly fond of these fleshy perennials, have prompted contemporary hybridizations aimed at creating hostas that are increasingly resistant to their attacks.

Combine them in masses with other hostas, ferns, delphiniums, Solomon's seals, and other low-growing ground cover perennials such as creeping bugles, geraniums, and lamiums. All are very effective as slug repellents. The silver-leaved Brunnera macrophylla 'Mr Morse', which is familiar in woodlands, will be excellent companions. Also consider Heucheras and their fantastic range of colors, or the delicate flowers of Epimediums. The golden foliage contrasts wonderfully with their red and orange tones. This way, you can enhance the shaded and slightly damp areas of the garden, creating a pleasant haven of freshness for summer. Hostas also thrive in containers that should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly. Hostas go well with spring bulbs that appear in late spring, providing ample foliage to cover faded plants. Around a pond, plant them with persicarias, carex, and astilbes. The blue foliage harmonizes perfectly with the red and purple foliage of Japanese maples.

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