Overview
Hosta 'Sum and Substance' is a perennial in the genus Hosta, part of the Q157167 family. Hosta 'Sum and Substance' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates rich and well-drained soils and acidic to neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include ground cover, shade garden, borders and containers.
About
A large, bold-leaved hosta with chartreuse to yellow-green foliage that matures to a deeper green, known for its substantial size and shade tolerance.
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
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Hosta
- Sunlight
- partial shade, shade
- Soil type
- rich, well-drained
- Soil pH
- acidic to neutral
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Aspect
- north, east, west
- Exposure
- sheltered to semi-exposed
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Hosta 'Sum and Substance' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Suggested uses
- ground cover, shade garden, borders, containers
- Toxicity
- toxic to pets if ingested
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Hosta 'Sum and Substance'
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade; mulch to retain moisture; avoid direct hot sun to prevent leaf scorch.
- Pruning
- Remove dead or damaged leaves as needed; cut back flower stalks after blooming.
- Propagation
- division in spring or autumn
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Hosta 'Sum and Substance'?
Prefers moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade; mulch to retain moisture; avoid direct hot sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Where is the best place to plant Hosta 'Sum and Substance'?
Hosta 'Sum and Substance' prefers partial shade and shade. It suits sheltered to semi-exposed positions.
What soil does Hosta 'Sum and Substance' need?
Hosta 'Sum and Substance' grows best in rich and well-drained soil. It prefers acidic to neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Hosta 'Sum and Substance'?
Remove dead or damaged leaves as needed; cut back flower stalks after blooming.
Is Hosta 'Sum and Substance' hardy in the UK?
Hosta 'Sum and Substance' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Hosta 'Sum and Substance'?
Division in spring or autumn.
Is Hosta 'Sum and Substance' toxic?
Toxic to pets if ingested.
More in the Hosta genus
- Hostaplantain lily
- Hosta 'Dust Devil' (_fortunei_) (v)Hosta

- Hosta 'Francee'Hosta

- Hosta 'Honeybells'plantain lily 'Honeybells'

- Hosta 'Kabitan'Plantain Lily

- Hosta 'Krossa Regal'plantain lily 'Krossa Regal'

- Hosta 'Royal Standard'plantain lily 'Royal Standard'

- Hosta 'Alligator Shoes' (v)plantain lily 'Alligator Shoes'