Hosta Sorbet

Hosta Sorbet is, in a way, a vigorous Raspberry Sundae hosta with inverted colours. Of medium size, this variety eventually forms a large cushion of remarkably coloured leaves. Its leaves display different shades of green in the centre, a mix of cream and pale yellow on the edges, all enhanced by a touch of Burgundy red that diffuses from beautiful stalks of the same red. Its late summer flowering, a deep mauve, is more colourful than that of usual varieties. This magnificent perennial will make a big impact in shaded areas of the garden or terrace, in moist soil.

Hostas belong to the Liliaceae family. Originally from Japan and China, there are no less than forty species and countless horticultural varieties appreciated for their foliage. Hosta is an herbaceous and deciduous perennial plant that is easy to grow in ordinary soil, preferably in shade. Its foliage emerges from the ground in spring and disappears in winter.

This 'Sorbet' Hosta comes from the Raspberry Sundae cultivar. The plant bears beautiful upright leaves in basal rosettes, slightly glossy, elongated heart-shaped with veined and tapered tips. Each leaf is carried by a dark red petiole that becomes brownish over time. The plant reaches about 38cm (15in) in height and 60cm (24in) in width at maturity. Flowering takes place in late summer, usually in August-September. Dark stems measuring 58cm (23in) in height emerge from the leaf clump, bearing violet flowers. Hostas are very long-lived plants that can last for many years in the garden.

The Hosta Sorbet is very decorative in borders and beds, but also in pots. Combine it with other varieties, as well as with tiarellas and brunneras at the base of a large tree to create a sumptuous foliage display. It pairs well with many perennials such as astilbes, Japanese ferns, epimediums, and purple cimicifugas, requiring little maintenance. Its foliage will hide the gaps left by spring-flowering bulbs. It will also look great alongside lungworts, small violets... All hostas grow well in pots and can remain in the same container for several years. Choose a special geranium potting soil to use during the growing season. As long as the foliage is not too dense, watering from above the pot is possible. Then place a saucer under the pot where you will pour water, keeping the level constant during summer.