Plantain Lily Hosta 'Atlantis' (PBR) (v)

Water

The Hosta, commonly known as the "Plantain Lily," requires even and consistent moisture, particularly in spring and summer. It should be watered deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water, which is roughly equivalent to 0.6 gallons for an average-sized plant. During hot or dry weather, increase watering to twice per week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. In well-drained soil, the water should penetrate to a depth of at least six inches to encourage deep root growth. Decrease watering in fall as the plant prepares for dormancy, and avoid overwatering in winter when the plant's water requirements are minimal.

Light

The Hosta 'Atlantis' thrives in partial to full shade. It is best to locate the plant in a garden spot where it can receive morning light but be protected from the harsh afternoon sun. Dappled light beneath trees or a northern exposure that provides consistent shade without deep darkness are ideal conditions for maintaining the vibrant foliage of the Plantain Lily.

Temperature

Hostas, including the 'Atlantis', prefer moderate temperatures and cannot withstand extreme cold or heat well. They are most comfortable in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F. The Plantain Lily can survive minimum temperatures as low as -30°F but should be mulched in winter to protect the roots from freezing. During the summer, ensure the plant is not exposed to temperatures exceeding 90°F for prolonged periods, as this can cause stress and scorching.

Pruning

Prune the Hosta 'Atlantis', or Plantain Lily, to remove any dead or damaged leaves throughout the growing season to maintain plant health and appearance. More extensive pruning should be done in early spring or late fall by cutting back the foliage to ground level after it has yellowed or been killed by frost. Annual pruning encourages vigorous new growth and prevents disease by removing potential fungal and bacterial harborages.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Hosta 'Atlantis', commonly known as Atlantis Hosta, is one that is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and has a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. You can create a suitable blend by mixing garden soil, compost, peat moss, and perlite or vermiculite. This provides a fertile environment with proper moisture retention and aeration to support the plant's growth.

Repotting

Atlantis Hosta typically requires repotting every 3 to 5 years as it slowly spreads. When the leaves begin crowding or the root ball fills the current pot, it's time to repot. Spring, when the plant emerges from dormancy, is the best time for repotting to allow the Hosta to establish itself before the growing season.

Humidity & Misting

Atlantis Hosta thrives best in environments with average to high humidity, similar to its natural woodland habitat. Ensuring a humidity level of around 50% is ideal for this plant, avoiding overly dry air which can stress the leaves.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light with moist soil.

• Outdoor

  Grow in shade to part sun, keep soil consistently moist.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Hosta 'Atlantis', commonly known as Atlantis hosta, begins its lifecycle as a dormant rhizome or division planted in the spring. It starts its active growth with the emergence of shoots and leaves, which unfurl to display its distinctive wide, variegated foliage throughout spring and summer. The plant reaches maturity when it forms a clump with multiple leaves, and in late summer, it produces tall flower stalks bearing lavender blooms that attract pollinators. Following the flowering stage, the plant sets seed, although many gardeners deadhead the flowers to encourage more robust foliage growth. As autumn approaches, the leaves die back, and the plant enters a period of dormancy to conserve energy for the winter. The cycle repeats annually, with the perennial Atlantis hosta growing larger and more impressive with each passing year.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The most popular propagation method for the Hosta 'Atlantis' is division, which is typically best done in the early spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Division involves carefully digging up the entire plant and gently separating it into smaller clumps, ensuring that each new section has both roots and shoots. Use a sharp knife or spade to cut through the thick roots if they are too tangled or dense. Each new clump should be replanted promptly to the same depth it was growing at before, allowing ample space for the new plants to grow. Water the new divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method allows gardeners to quickly and effectively multiply their Hosta 'Atlantis' plants while maintaining the variegation and characteristics of the original plant.