Hosta 'Pole Cat' (v) (plantain lily 'Pole Cat') — Clump forming

Overview

Hosta 'Pole Cat' (v) is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Hosta, part of the Asparagaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Hosta 'Pole Cat' (v) grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants, low maintenance and underplanting of roses and shrubs.

About

Hosta 'Pole Cat' is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the Asparagaceae, grown for its deciduous foliage and summer flowers. It performs best in partial shade on neutral loam that stays moist but drains freely. Plant in a sheltered aspect — north-, east- or west-facing positions are recommended. Flowers appear June to August.

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. The genus is placed in the family Asparagaceae, subfamily Agavoideae, and is native to northeast Asia.

Wikipedia contributors, "Hosta", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Hosta

In the garden

Hosta 'Pole Cat' belongs to the genus Hosta in the family Asparagaceae and is a clump-forming, herbaceous perennial suited to shaded spots. As a deciduous foliage plant it is aimed at gardens that can supply consistent moisture in a well-draining loam. The genus has a long history as a shade plant and 'Pole Cat' follows that pattern, setting flowers in summer. Position this plant where it receives partial shade; north-, east- and west-facing aspects give the best balance of light and protection. Aim for a sheltered situation to reduce wind exposure and moisture loss. Soil should be a neutral loam kept moist but with good drainage; a layer of organic mulch will help retain moisture through drier spells without allowing waterlogging. Hardiness H7 indicates the plant is fully hardy in UK conditions, so it can remain in the ground through winter in most locations. Use Hosta 'Pole Cat' in city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal beds, or in containers on a patio where partial shade can be provided. It is suitable for underplanting beneath roses and shrubs where root competition is moderate and light is subdued. Expect flowering from June to August, which provides a distinct seasonal phase following the growth of the foliage.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Hosta

Sunlight: Partial shade
Soil type: Loam
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Hosta 'Pole Cat' (v) size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Clump forming
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Low Maintenance, Underplanting of roses and shrubs