Hosta ventricosa

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 Liliaceae are also found in northern China and eastern Siberia. They are also commonly called Funkia or Plantain Lily because of their foliage.
Excellent plants for shade, they are cultivated for their highly decorative foliage. The shiny green leaves of Hosta ventricosa are deeply veined and measure an average of 20cm (8in). The parallel veins are very specific to this family. This variety spreads over 90cm (35in) in width, making it an excellent ground cover. From July to August, a series of long stalks, widely overhanging the leafy clump, bear a terminal cluster of 2 to 3cm (1in) amethyst-coloured flowers with white stripes, slightly pendulous. Despite their resemblance to lily flowers, they are completely odourless. Hostas prefer rich loamy soils, even heavy and clayey as long as they remain slightly moist. If they are happy, they will stay in place for years without requiring any particular care.

Pair them with the gold of the Perennial Geranium phaeum Margaret Wilson, with ramsons, with the old pink of Digitalis mertonensis, or with the purple fronds of the Athyrium niponicum Pictum fern. They are all very effective as slug repellents. Lobelia speciosa Russian Princess and the familiar silver Brunnera macrophylla Mr Morse in the undergrowth will be excellent companions. Also consider Heucheras and their amazing range of colours, or the delicate flowers of fairy bells (Epimediums). With these combinations, you can enhance the shaded and slightly moist parts of the garden by creating a pleasant haven of freshness for the summer. Hostas also thrive in containers, which should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly.
Important to know: the lighter the leaves of hostas, the less they dislike 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 sufficient for these plants that prefer dappled shade over full shade. In fact, without a minimum amount of sunlight, they will not flower. It's important to find a harmonious compromise between light and darkness as It would be a shame to miss out on their beautiful flowers!