Hosta Victor

Hosta 'Victor' is a medium-sized variety that stands out for the original texture of its foliage: its large leaves are oriented in different directions, forming a sort of spiral. Glossy in appearance, strongly veined, and slightly puckered, they also have a rare variegated pattern, with a narrow median zone tinted from yellow to chartreuse-green. In summer, the foliage is adorned with lavender bell-shaped flower spikes that add to its charm. This variety, which truly stands out in the shade garden, also looks impressive in a large pot. It also offers good resistance to slugs.

The Hosta or Funkia 'Victor' is a mutation of the Whirlwind variety. It is a deciduous perennial that is very hardy, with the foliage emerging from the ground in spring. It belongs to the asparagus family. The plant, which has fairly slow growth but a long lifespan, reaches 45cm (18in) in height with a spread of about 80cm (32in). It develops ovate leaves with cordate bases, tapering to a point, slightly asymmetrical and concave. The leaf blade is marked by 6 pairs of deep veins. It is a fairly dark green colour, with a narrow zone in the centre that transitions from yellow to chartreuse-green in shade. From the heart of its variegated foliage, flowering spikes emerge, reaching about 60cm (24in) in height, bearing clusters of bell-shaped flowers in a light lavender colour, devoid of fragrance. This 'Victor' variety thrives in shade or partial shade, in humus-rich and moist soil.

Combine groups of hostas with ferns, Solomon's seal and other low ground cover perennials such as bugleweeds, wood geraniums, and dead nettles. All are very effective as slug repellents. The familiar silver Brunnera macrophylla Mr Morse will be excellent companions in the undergrowth. Also consider Heucheras and their wonderful range of colours, or the delicate flowers of fairy wings (Epimediums). With these combinations, you can enhance the shaded and slightly humid areas of the garden, creating a pleasant haven for the summer. Hostas also thrive in pots that should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly. Hostas go wonderfully well with spring bulbs, as they hide their absence in summer under their generous foliage! Plant them around a pond with persicarias, sedges, and astilbes. The blue-green foliage blends perfectly with the red and purple foliage of Japanese maples.

Fun fact: Most species commonly found in Western gardens have been introduced from Japan. Hostas are edible and are called "urui" in Japan, where they are commonly consumed.