Hosta undulata var. univittata

Hostas are perennial herbaceous plants with deciduous foliage that reproduce 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. But these plants from the family Liliaceae can also be found in northern China and eastern Siberia. They are also commonly called Funkia or Plantain lilies because of their foliage.

Excellent plants for shade, they are cultivated for their highly decorative foliage. The green leaves with cream margins of the Hosta undulata var. univittata are deeply veined and measure an average of 15cm (6in). The softly coloured parallel veins are very specific to this family. This variety spreads up to 60cm (24in) in width, making it an excellent ground cover. From June to July, a series of long stalks, towering above the leafy clump, bear a terminal cluster of slightly pendulous purple flowers measuring 2 to 3cm (1in). Despite their resemblance to lily flowers, they are completely odourless. Hostas prefer rich loamy soils, even heavy and clayey ones, as long as they remain slightly moist. If they are happy, they will stay in place for years without requiring special care.

Pair them with the gold of the Geranium phaeum 'Margaret Wilson', ramsons, the old rose-coloured flowers of the Digitalis mertonensis, or 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', both plants of the undergrowth, will be excellent companions. Also consider Heucheras and their wonderful range of colours, or the delicate flowers of fairy bells (Epimedium). With these combinations you can enhance the shaded and slightly damp parts of the garden by creating a pleasant haven for the summer. Hostas also thrive in pots, which should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly.
Good to know: the lighter the leaves of hostas, the more they tolerate sunlight. Dark leaves, especially blue ones, are more sensitive to it, and the heat causes them to lose the waxy film responsible for their colour. A few hours of sun per day, even partial, is more than enough for these shade plants. In fact, without a minimum amount of sun, they will not bloom. It is important to select a location with a good balance between light and shade as it would be a shame to miss out on these magnificent flowers.