Hosta Pauls Glory

Hostas are perennial herbaceous plants with deciduous foliage that reproduce from rhizomes and stolons. They differ in size, texture, and color. Originally from East Asia, they were first brought back from Japan and then Korea. But these Liliaceae are also found in northern China and eastern Siberia. They are also commonly called Funkia or Plantain Lily because of their foliage.

Shade plants par excellence, they are cultivated for their highly decorative basal foliage. The chartreuse green leaves marginated with blue-green are deeply veined and measure 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12in). The parallel nervation is very specific to this family. This variety spreads up to 90 cm (35in) in width, making it an excellent ground cover. From July to August, a series of long stalks, widely overhanging the leafy clump, bear a terminal cluster of pendulous white flowers tinged with pink, measuring 2 to 3 cm (1in). Despite their resemblance to lily flowers, they are completely odorless. Hostas prefer rich loamy soils, even heavy and clayey ones, as long as they remain slightly moist. If they are happy, they will remain in place for years without requiring special care.

Pair them with the gold of perennial Geranium phaeum Margaret Wilson, with wild garlic, with the old pink of Mertonensis Digitalis, or with the purple fronds of Athyrium niponicum Pictum fern. All are very effective as slug repellents. The Russian Princess Lobelia speciosa and the silver Brunnera macrophylla Mr Morse, familiar in the undergrowth, will be excellent companions. Also consider Heucheras and their wonderful range of colors, or the delicate flowers of Epimediums. You will enhance the shaded and slightly damp parts of the garden by creating a pleasant haven of freshness for the summer. Hostas also thrive in pots that should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly.
Important to know: the lighter the leaves of hostas, the less they fear sunlight. Dark leaves, especially blue ones, are more sensitive to it, and heat causes them to lose the waxy film responsible for their color. A few hours of sun per day, even partial, are more than enough for these plants that prefer shade rather than full sun. In fact, without a minimum amount of sunlight, they will not flower. The key is to find a harmonious compromise between light and darkness.