Hosta plantaginea Venus

Hosta plantaginea Venus is derived from Hosta plantaginea Aphrodite. It is a rare variety, with truly double and highly fragrant white flowers. This is why it is chosen: to admire its long tubular lily flower, with a double row of petals, and to perfume balconies or pathways with a heady scent of orange blossom. They bloom in late summer, well above a beautiful clump of large heart-shaped, veined, glossy and green leaves. This variety tolerates partial shade or non-burning sunlight in moist soil.

Hostas are deciduous herbaceous perennial plants that reproduce from rhizomes and stolons. They differ in size, texture, and colour. Originally from East Asia, they are also called plantain lilies because of their foliage. Ultimate shade plants, they are grown for their highly decorative foliage. The medium green leaves of Hosta plantaginea Venus are heart-shaped and deeply veined, averaging 18 cm (7in) long. The venation is very specific to the lily family. This variety reaches a height of 50 cm (20in) and spreads up to 80 cm (32in) wide. From August to September, a series of long stems widely overhanging the leafy clump bear a terminal cluster of double white flowers (between 18 and 24 petals) which are slightly pendulous, measuring 5 to 8 cm (2 to 3in). An absolutely unusual feature among hostas, the flowers of this variety are highly fragrant, with a fragrance reminiscent of orange blossom.

Hostas appreciate rich loamy soils, even heavy and clay as long it remains slightly moist. If they are happy, they will remain in place for years without requiring special care. Combine them with Geranium phaeum Margaret Wilson, wild garlic, the old rose of Digitalis mertonensis or the purple fronds of Japanese fern Athyrium niponicum Pictum. All are very effective as slug repellents. In partial shade, Hosta plantaginea Venus appreciates the company of Lobelia siphilitica Alba with white flowers, Polygonatum odoratum and Brunneras.  Planted alone or in groups along a pathway, it perfumes the way. Hostas also thrive in large pots that should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly. 

Just so you know, the lighter the leaves of hostas, the less they fear the sunlight. The darker leaves, especially the blue ones, are more sensitive to it, and the heat makes them lose the waxy film responsible for their colour. A few hours of partial sun per day are more than enough for these shade plants. Without a minimum of sun, however, they will not bloom. It would be a shame to miss out on beautiful flowers so the challenge is to find a harmonious compromise between light and darkness.