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Hosta - Plantain Lily - Perennial Flower For Your Garden © 2007Visit Our Online Store.For Perennials and Perennial Seed |
Hosta sp. Family - Liliaceae - Lily There are about forty species of hostas in cultivation, more or less. Because of the amount of crossbreeding which has taken place over the years it is hard to sort this popular plant out. Plantain lily originated in China, Japan, and Korea and was introduced into cultivation in England around 1789. Hosta was named in honor of an Austrian Physician, Nicholaus Tomas Host. Primarily grown for its foliage and its affinity for shade and partial shade, hosta also has attractive flowers which appear in mid to late summer. In some species the spires of lavender, white, or purple are quite majestic and fragrant. The foliage is the prime attraction, as it will remain attractive all season. Various shades of green, yellow or gold, or variegated, the leaves are usually large and spear shaped. There are many types of hosta with much variation between varieties. Plantian lilies are easy to grow, requiring partial to full shade and moist soil. After planting they grow slowly, establishing themselves in clumps after a few years. They should not be disturbed after planting for a few years. Most are hardy to USDA Zone 4. Snails and slugs love feasting on the leaves are are just about the only pest which bothers them. Propagation of hosta is done in the spring. Dig the plant and cut into wedge shaped portions with a shovel. Replant, spacing the new plants about a foot apart. Hosta, or plantian lily, is queen of the shade garden. Colorful foliage and attractive flowers will brighten the shady nooks of your perennial garden. |
