About

Funkia is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants valued for its foliage and noted for shade tolerance. Plants grow from rhizomes and form clumps whose leaves range from very small to large, lanceolate or ovate in shape. Cultivars amplify this natural variation so gardeners choose forms for leaf size and texture. The foliage is usually the principal feature in cultivation.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Hosta

About the genus

Hosta is a genus of plants commonly known as hostas, plantain lilies and occasionally by the Japanese name gibōshi. Hostas are widely cultivated as shade-tolerant foliage plants.

In the garden

Funkia is the botanical name for the genus most gardeners know as hostas, native to north‑east Asia. Members of the genus are herbaceous perennials that spread from rhizomes, sometimes producing stolons, and have a wide range of leaf sizes and shapes — from miniature clumps to large, architectural leaves. These plants perform best out of direct sun; they are commonly used where light is limited because of their tolerance of shade. The rhizomatous habit means they form clumps over time, so give each plant space to develop and expect slow lateral spread in successive seasons. Leaves are the main ornamental attribute, so select cultivars according to the scale of the bed — small-leaved types for tight borders and larger types where a foliage sweep is wanted. In a UK garden Funkia suits shaded borders, beneath tree canopies and any area where leaf texture is needed more than floral display. Miniature forms work at the front of beds or on the edge of paths, while larger forms can be used as ground cover beneath shrubs. For a planting that reads clearly through the lower-light months, choose contrasting leaf shapes and sizes rather than relying on flower colour alone.