Hosta Yellow Polka Dot Bikini

'Hosta 'Yellow Polka Dot Bikini' is a variety of moderate size that is distinguished by variegated foliage adorned with an original pattern, and a fine white line highlighting the centre of the leaf surface, inherited from its parent, the Hosta 'Striptease'. The spring leaves are largely bordered by yellow-green around a dark green-grey centre. The plant forms a fairly dense cushion, from which mauve bell-shaped flower spikes emerge in summer. A little gem to liven up slightly shaded areas, both in the ground and in pots.

'Hosta 'Yellow Polka Dot Bikini' is a completely hardy deciduous perennial, which from spring has a very wide dome-shaped habit. It belongs to the asparagus family. The plant will reach a height of 25cm (10in) and a width of 45cm (18in), growing fairly slowly over the years. It develops elongated heart-shaped leaves, ending in a pointed tip, with a thick and slightly wavy texture. The leaf surface, rounded when the leaves emerge, flattens out in summer. It is undulated, folded, and traversed by visible veins. The leaves change appearance during the growing season, and the yellow coloured margins will eventually become apple green. The flowers emerge from the foliage in July-August. They take the form of floral stems bearing clusters of pendulous lavender bell-shaped flowers, grouped towards the top. The vegetation disappears in winter and re-emerges from the ground in spring.

Hosta 'Yellow Polka Dot Bikini' will not go unnoticed in spring, attracting attention in a semi-shaded scene. It can be combined with many perennials such as astilbes, ferns, epimediums, and 'Claytonia sibirica', with which it forms beautiful colourful duos that require little maintenance, as well as with columbines and tall foxgloves or small violets. It can also be paired with shade-tolerant shrubs such as Mexican orange blossom, variegated holly, and azaleas. All hostas grow well in pots and can remain in the same container for several years. A special geranium potting soil should be chosen and used during the growing season. As long as the foliage is not too dense, watering can be done from the top of the pot. Then place a saucer under the pot where you will pour the water, maintaining a constant level in summer.

Most species widespread in Western gardens have been introduced from Japan. Edible, hostas are called 'urui' in Japan, where they are commonly consumed.