Hosta Sweet Susan

Hostas are herbaceous perennial plants with deciduous foliage, reproducing 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. These Liliaceae are also found in northern China and eastern Siberia. They are also commonly called Funkia or Plantain lilies because of their foliage.
Excellent shade-loving plants, they are grown for their highly decorative foliage. The Sweet Susan Hosta has lanceolate leaves that are deeply veined and measure an average of 20cm (8in). The fine parallel veins are very specific to this family. This variety spreads over 70cm (28in) in width, making it an excellent ground cover. From June to July, a series of long stems overhanging the leafy clump, bear a terminal cluster of double white flowers that are slightly pendulous and measure 3 - 4cm (1 - 2in). The flowers of this variety are highly fragrant, with a fragrance reminiscent of orange blossom, which is unusual for Hostas. Hostas prefer rich loamy soils, even heavy and clayey 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 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. These combinations are ideal for enhancing a dark and slightly damp part of the garden, creating a pleasant haven of shade for the summer. Hostas also thrive in containers, which should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly.
Important: the lighter the leaves of hostas, the more they tolerate sunlight. Dark leaves, especially blue ones, are more sensitive to it, and heat causes them to lose the waxy film responsible for their colour. A few hours of sun per day, even partial, is beneficial to these shade plants. In fact, without a minimum amount of sunlight, they will not flower. It's important to find a good compromise between shade and light when positioning these perennials as it would be a shame to deprive yourself of their magnificent flowers.