Hosta White Trumpets

Hosta 'White Trumpets' is a variety that stands out for its small clump of lanceolate leaves of a shiny light green colour and abundant pure white summer flowers, which are uncommon in hostas! It is a mutation of H. sieboldii, with moderate growth that should be planted in a bright location, preferably exposed to morning sun, in rich and moist soil. Plant it in large groups on the edge of the undergrowth to fully enjoy its bright flowers!

Hosta, also known as Funkia, is a very hardy, deciduous perennial, producing its decorative leafy clump every spring to decorate shady areas until winter arrives. It belongs to the asparagaceae family. With a moderate growth rate, Hosta 'White Trumpets' forms a compact bushy clump, reaching 40cm (16in) in height and 50cm (20in) in width. It is a plant with a long lifespan that bears small fairly thin, lanceolate, smooth, and lightly veined leaves measuring 15cm (6in) long and 5cm (2in) wide. From the centre of its light foliage, numerous erect flower spikes emerge from July to August, bearing racemes of pure white bell-shaped flowers, with little fragrance.

Hostas prefer moist, well-drained, and rich soils, and absolutely dislike drought and scorching exposures. Locations exposed to afternoon sun or direct sunlight should be avoided as they can burn the leaves of these perennials. In hotter and drier regions, provide a thick mulch. Hostas, with their generous and decorative foliage, are perfect as ground cover, border plants, or in semi-shaded to shaded flower beds, where other plants struggle to grow. They thrive in sheltered and moist locations such as woodlands. Varieties with blue and green foliage tolerate dense shade better. Sun tends to turn blue leaf colours green. Lighter foliage thrives in partial shade, where its colour transforms and lightens with increased sunlight. In general, exposure to morning sun allows optimal development of these perennials and also makes them more floriferous. Gastropods (slugs and snails), which particularly enjoy these fleshy perennials, have led to contemporary hybridisations aiming to create hostas that are increasingly resistant to their attacks. For varieties with less tough leaves, consider using hemp mulch or mineral mulch such as gravel, which deter these pests. It is worth noting that frogs and hedgehogs are their natural predators, so their presence is beneficial for the garden's balance.

Combine them in mass plantings with other hostas, ferns, delphiniums, solomon's seal, and other low-growing ground cover perennials such as creeping bugles, geraniums, and dead nettles. All of them are very effective as slug repellents. Brunnera macrophylla Mr Morse, silver-leaved plants familiar in woodlands, will be excellent companions. Also consider Heucheras and their wonderful range of colours, or the delicate flowers of Epimediums. Golden foliage contrasts beautifully with their red and orange tones. By planting up the shaded and slightly moist parts of the garden, you can create a pleasant haven for the summer. Hostas also thrive in pots, which should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly. Hostas pair wonderfully with spring bulbs, providing the ideal cover for faded plants with their generous foliage! Around a pond, plant them with persicarias, sedges, and astilbes. The blue-grey foliage harmonises perfectly with the red and purple foliage of Japanese maples, as well as the golden-yellow foliage of Hakonechloa grasses and Heucheras.

Did you know: Most species commonly found in Western gardens were introduced from Japan. Hostas are edible and are called "urui" in Japan, where they are commonly consumed.