Hosta So Sweet

The Hosta 'So Sweet' is a small variety that develops elongated, smooth and shiny-textured leaves, which host fabulous color variations. The leaves emerge variegated green with yellow edges and as the foliage develops, the variegation turns to cream and then to white. This small hosta shows a medium to slow growth and is adorned with pretty white flowers in summer, slightly fragrant. Hostas are easy to grow and succeed as perennials in cool areas, filling them with their strong presence while bringing a beautiful touch of light to shaded areas of the garden.

This Hosta, or Funkia, is a completely hardy perennial, having a wide clump habit starting from spring. It belongs to the asparagaceae family. The plant will reach a height of 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16in) and 50 cm (20in) when flowering, spreading at least 30 cm (12in), quite slowly. It forms a clump wider than it is tall. It is a plant of good longevity, with fine heart-shaped deciduous leaves ending in a tapered tip, with visible veins. The lamina is thick and traversed by visible veins. From the heart of its variegated and ever-changing foliage, tall floral spikes of 50 cm (20in) emerge in summer, bearing racemes of delicately scented white flowers.

Pair Hosta 'So Sweet' with the gold of Géranium phaeum 'Margaret Wilson', the old pink of Digitalis mertonensis, or the purple fronds of the Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum' fern. All are highly effective as slug repellents. The silvered leaves of Brunnera macrophylla 'Mr Morse', woodland plants, will be excellent companions. Also consider the Heucheras and their wonderful range of colors, or the delicate flowers of fairy bells (Epimediums). This way, 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 containers, which should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly.

To know: Most species commonly found in Western gardens have been introduced from Japan. Edible, hostas are called urui in Japan, where they are commonly consumed.