Hosta plantaginea var. japonica
ABOUT
Hosta plantaginea var. japonica, commonly known as Hosta or Plantain Lily, is recognized for its lush, attractive foliage and fragrant flowers. The plant typically forms a clump of broad, heart-shaped leaves that are deep green in color. These leaves are glossy and can often have a smooth texture. During the growing season, Hosta displays a mound of foliage that serves as a backdrop for its blooms. The flowers of Hosta are notable for their fragrance, which is uncommon among Hostas. They generally appear on tall stalks that rise above the foliage and bear a number of trumpet-shaped blooms. These flowers are white and can be quite showy, making them an attractive feature in the garden when they are in bloom. Overall, Hosta creates a substantial presence with its dense foliage and striking floral display, which can add a lush and elegant touch to shaded or semi-shaded garden areas. It's a popular choice for gardeners looking to add texture and a splash of white blooms to their landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Fragrant Plantain Lily, Japanese Hosta, August Lily
Common names
Hosta plantaginea f. japonica, Hosta japonica, Funkia plantaginea var. japonica, Funkia japonica.
ToxicityTo humans
Hostas, commonly known as hostas, are generally considered safe for humans and are not known to be toxic if ingested. There is no widespread evidence to suggest that hostas pose a significant risk of poisoning to humans. Thus, consuming parts of the plant typically does not result in harmful effects or symptoms in people.
To pets
Hostas are toxic to pets, particularly to cats and dogs. If a pet ingests any part of the plant, they may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and depression. In severe cases, more serious effects like liver failure could occur, although such extreme reactions are not common. Pet owners should prevent their animals from eating hostas and seek veterinary attention if they suspect their pet has consumed any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: Adds visual interest to gardens with its lush foliage and attractive white flowers.
- Shade tolerance: Grows well in shaded areas where many other plants struggle.
- Easy to care for: Requires minimal maintenance and is relatively pest and disease-resistant.
- Variety: Comes in a range of sizes and leaf colors, allowing for diverse garden designs.
- Soil adaptability: Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, though it prefers well-drained, fertile soil.
- Drought tolerance: Typically resilient once established and can tolerate periods of dry weather.
- Ground cover: Can be used to cover large areas and help prevent soil erosion.
- Long-lasting: A perennial plant that comes back year after year, providing long-term garden interest.
- Attracts wildlife: Flowers are known to attract hummingbirds and other pollinators, which can benefit the entire garden ecosystem.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Garden Design: Hosta is often used in shade gardens for its lush foliage and ability to fill in space, providing a backdrop for other shade-loving plants or used as a ground cover.
- Border Plants: Because of their mounding habit, Hosta plants are excellent for creating borders along walkways, paths, or around other garden features.
- Container Gardening: While Hostas are typically found in gardens, they can also be potted in containers for patios or balconies that have limited sunlight.
- Floral Arrangements: The blooms of Hosta, especially those of Hosta plantaginea var. japonica, can be cut and used in floral arrangements for a delicate and fragrant touch.
- Accent Plants: Due to their varied leaf sizes, shapes, and colors, Hosta plants serve as accent plants within a garden, adding texture and contrasts.
- Companion Planting: Hostas can be planted alongside ferns, astilbes, and bleeding hearts to create a varied texture and interest in shade gardens.
- Water Garden Accent: Hostas can be planted near ponds or streams, contributing to a natural feeling in water garden designs without invading the water feature.
- Biomass: In larger plantings, Hostas can be harvested as biomass for composting, contributing organic matter back into the garden.
- Education: Hostas can be used in educational settings, such as schools or community gardens, to teach about shade horticulture and plant care.
- Photography: With their attractive foliage, Hosta plants are often used as subjects or backgrounds in garden photography.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hosta is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hosta is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Hostas are hardy plants that can thrive in shade, symbolizing the ability to adapt and prosper even in less-than-ideal conditions.
- Devotion: With their lush foliage, hostas represent faithfulness and devotion, growing stronger with each passing year.
- Peace: The cooling greens of the hosta's leaves convey tranquility and a sense of peace, making them ideal for contemplative garden spaces.
- Heartiness: Hostas are known for their robust nature, implying inner strength and the capacity to withstand challenges.
- Longevity: With their ability to live for many years, hostas are often associated with long life and endurance.
WaterThe August lily should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to slightly dry out between waterings. During hot and dry periods, increase the frequency to twice a week. Each watering session should provide the plant with 1 inch of water or about 0.6 gallons per square foot of soil. It's best to water the plant early in the morning or late in the afternoon to reduce evaporation. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
LightAugust lilies thrive best in partial shade to full shade conditions. A spot that receives morning sun and is shaded during the peak afternoon heat is ideal. These plants can also adapt to varying light conditions but should be protected from harsh direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.
TemperatureAugust lilies prefer moderate temperatures and perform well in a range between 50°F and 85°F. They can survive brief periods of colder temperatures down to 30°F, but prolonged exposure to freezing conditions can be detrimental. The ideal temperature for these plants is between 60°F and 75°F to promote lush foliage and optimal growth.
PruningAugust lilies benefit from pruning to remove dead or damaged leaves and to maintain plant health. Cut back the foliage in late fall or early spring. This is also the time to remove flower stalks after blooms have faded, which encourages new growth and keeps the plant tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Hostas, commonly known as Plantain Lilies, should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. A mixture with equal parts of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or pine bark would be ideal to ensure good drainage and aeration. These plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 7.5.
RepottingPlantain Lilies, typically do not need frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. Repotting can be done every 3 to 5 years to refresh the soil or when the plant has clearly outgrown its current container, which is noticeable when roots start to circle the pot or grow through drainage holes.
Humidity & MistingPlantain Lilies prefer moderate to high humidity levels. They thrive in an environment with 50% to 70% humidity, which supports their lush foliage growth. Avoid placing them in excessively dry conditions which may lead to leaf desiccation.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in bright, indirect light with regular watering.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, enrich soil, moderate water.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleHosta plantaginea var. japonica, commonly known as Hosta or Plantain Lily, begins its life cycle from a seed germinating in moist soil conditions, often taking several weeks. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and grows into a juvenile plant, developing a characteristic clump of foliage with wide leaves. Over a few years, Hosta reaches maturity and forms a dense, leafy mound, from which it produces tall flower spikes in late summer bearing fragrant, white flowers. After flowering, seeds are produced and dispersed, allowing the cycle to continue, while the plant itself may also spread vegetatively through underground rhizomes. During winter, Hosta enters a period of dormancy, with its foliage dying back, and then it resprouts the following spring to restart the annual growth cycle. Over time, a mature Hosta can be divided and transplanted to propagate new plants, extending its presence in the garden.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer
The most popular method of propagating Hosta plantaginea var. japonica, commonly known as August Lily or Japanese Hosta, is division. This method is best performed in the early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, preserving as much of the root system as possible. Using a sharp knife or spade, the plant can be split into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has at least 2-3 shoots and a portion of the root system. These divisions can then be replanted at the same depth they were growing at previously, spaced approximately 1 foot (about 30 centimeters) apart to allow for growth and spread. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to establish them in their new locations.
