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Hosta Wikimedia Commons
Asparagaceae

Hosta

Hosta plantaginea

Devotion and serenity.

Family
Asparagaceae
Genus
Hosta
Native to
China, Japan, Korea
Bloom season
Summer, Fall
Type
perennial herb
Height
1-3 ft
Sunlight
part shade to full shade
Soil
moist, well-drained, humus-rich
Water
moderate
Hardiness
3-9
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • Hosta plantaginea is the only species with strongly fragrant flowers, blooming in the evening to attract moths.
  • Hostas are primarily foliage plants, but their lily-like flower spikes can reach 2 feet above the leaves.
  • In Japan, young hosta shoots called 'urui' are eaten as a spring vegetable.
  • Hostas contain saponins toxic to dogs and cats, causing gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
  • A single hosta clump can live for decades, slowly expanding into impressive mounds several feet wide.

Color meanings

0

devotion

1

serenity

2

friendship

Uses

  • ornamental
  • culinary (shoots in Japan)
  • shade garden