Common Name:
Plaintain Lily
Description:
A clump forming perennial that dies down over winter.
Flower:
Spikes of lavender, bell shaped flowers.
Size:
Hostas multiply over winter and form large clumps of foliage. Depending on soil and climate conditions most Hostas will reach 80cm high and wide.
Growing Conditions:
Basically Hostas need part to full shade, where they thrive in well worked, free draining soil that has plenty of added compost and organic material. They do better if in a moist soil that is slightly acidic.
Care:
The biggest problem with Hostas is Snails, the love the fleshy foliage and can make quite a mess in a short time. Use bait or traps or even a weekly squash to keep them under control. Mulch well and water during dry periods. Hostas divide readily but you should leave them for the first few years before lifting.
Uses:
Comments:
Hostas really are no fuss fillers for shady gardens. Snails are the biggest problem but they can be easily fixed. Hostas look effective when mass planted, either with a single variety or a range of colours. Their only downfall is that they die down over winter. To overcome this, plant other shade lovers to fill out the gaps.