About
Hosta ventricosa, the blue plantain lily, is a tough, robust Hosta making a large clump of wavy-edged, dark, glossy-green, heart-shaped leaves to 18 cm. Deep-purple, bell-shaped flowers are borne on erect stems to 90 cm in late summer. One of the most richly coloured and vigorous of all the species hostas.
About the genus
Hosta, the plantain lilies, 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. Valued primarily for their foliage, they are excellent shade-tolerant border and container plants.
Plant details
Suggested usesWalls, fences, pergolas, arbours.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in fertile, well-drained soil. Provide support.
PruningTrain and tie in new growth. Prune after flowering.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed as appropriate.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.