About

A large, clump-forming deciduous perennial to around 90cm high and 1.2m across. Giant leaves are rich green, heart-shaped and with deeply impressed veins. Produces loose clusters of white flowers, on stems over a metre high in midsummer.

About the genus

Hosta are clump-forming herbaceous perennials with simple, ovate or lance-shaped leaves, often attractively coloured or variegated, and erect racemes of nodding, funnel or bell-shaped flowers in early summer

Growing conditions

SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

CultivationGrow in a shady spot in fertile soil that does not dry out, with shelter from cold, drying winds. Mulch annually in spring. Hostas in the ground may need watering during dry spells. See hosta cultivation for more detailed advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division in early spring or late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to virus diseases