Hosta Hosta 'Cherry Berry' (v)
ABOUT
Hosta 'Cherry Berry' is a distinctive and attractive variety of hosta that is appreciated for its ornamental foliage and contrasting colors. The plant's leaves are variegated, with a mix of colors that draws the eye. Each leaf typically has a creamy white or yellowish center, bordered by a dark green margin that frames the light-colored center beautifully. This striking color contrast gives the plant a vibrant and lively appearance in garden spaces. Adding to its appeal is the leaf shape; the leaves of Hosta 'Cherry Berry' are elongated and pointed, with a smooth texture that can have a slightly shiny surface catching the sunlight. The plant forms a tidy, mound-like clump of foliage that spreads outwards, covering the ground with its decorative leaves. The most unique feature of Hosta 'Cherry Berry' is the stems, which are a vivid red or burgundy color, a rare hue for hosta plants. These brightly colored stems hold aloft delicate bell-shaped flowers that are lavender or pale purple in color. The flowers bloom atop the red stems, creating a lovely contrast with both the colorful stems and the variegated foliage. The appearance of Hosta 'Cherry Berry' throughout the growing season can vary. New leaves may emerge in spring with more vibrant variegation which can fade or change as the season progresses. The plant provides a long season of interest, from the unfurling of the first leaves to the late summer or early fall when the flowers make their appearance. Hosta 'Cherry Berry' is a charming addition to shade gardens, borders, and containers where its decorative leaves can be enjoyed from spring until the first frosts of autumn.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Plantain Lily, Funkia
Common names
Hosta 'Cherry Berry'
ToxicityTo humans
Hostas are not generally considered poisonous to humans. Although they are not meant to be eaten, ingestion of small quantities typically does not result in severe poisoning. If large amounts are ingested, mild stomach upset could occur, but significant toxicity is rare.
To pets
Hostas, including the 'Cherry Berry' variety, are toxic to pets, especially dogs and cats. If ingested, they can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and depression due to the presence of saponins. It is important to keep pets away from these plants to prevent possible poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Lavender
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Hosta 'Cherry Berry' features striking variegated leaves that provide visual interest in garden spaces.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant thrives in shaded areas where many other plants struggle, making it ideal for woodland gardens or as an underplanting beneath trees.
- Low Maintenance: Hostas generally require minimal care once established and are regarded as an easy-to-grow option for gardeners.
- Seasonal Beauty: Hostas have a long growing season, with foliage from spring to fall, and some varieties produce attractive flowers.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, Hosta 'Cherry Berry' can tolerate periods of drought, making it suitable for gardens with low water availability.
- Pest Resistance: Hostas are resistant to many pests, although they can still be susceptible to slugs and snails.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Can be used in a variety of landscaping applications, from border fronts, container gardening, to ground covers.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hostas can be used to create a lush, textured ground cover in shaded garden areas, where other plants may struggle to thrive.
- The large leaves of the Hosta 'Cherry Berry' can be used in floral arrangements to provide an interesting foliage contrast to flowers and other plants.
- With their dense foliage, hostas can provide a natural habitat for small garden wildlife like frogs and beneficial insects.
- Hostas are often used in container gardens, adding structure and a background for smaller, more colorful plants.
- The Hosta 'Cherry Berry' can be part of a rain garden design, which helps to absorb excess rainwater and reduce runoff.
- These plants can be used in garden borders to create a defined edge between different parts of a garden or between the garden and the lawn.
- In art, the unique coloring and variegation of Hosta 'Cherry Berry' leaves can serve as inspiration or actual medium for eco-printing on fabric and paper.
- Hostas can be used under deciduous trees where they will enjoy the summer shade and can tolerate the root competition.
- The architectural form of hostas, especially the 'Cherry Berry', lends itself to modern garden designs where form and structure are key elements.
- Mature clumps of Hosta 'Cherry Berry' can be divided to propagate new plants, which can then be traded with other gardeners or given as gifts.
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 known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in shady areas where other plants may struggle. 'Cherry Berry' represents the ability to overcome challenging conditions.
- Adaptability: The variant's capacity to adapt to various environments symbolizes flexibility and versatility in life.
- Devotion: With its dependable growth and longevity, the Hosta plant is often associated with steadfastness and loyal commitment.
- Heartiness: The robust nature of Hostas, capable of withstanding pests and diseases, symbolizes a strong constitution and endurance.
WaterHostas need to be watered consistently, particularly during their growing season in the spring and summer. For Hosta 'Cherry Berry', water it deeply once a week, allowing the soil to become slightly dry between watering sessions. Each watering session should consist of about 1 gallon of water per plant, ensuring that the soil is moistened thoroughly but not waterlogged. During hot, dry periods, they may require additional water. Cut back on watering as the plant goes dormant in the fall.
LightHostas, including Hosta 'Cherry Berry', thrive best in partial to full shade. They should be planted in an area that receives morning sunlight and is protected from the intense heat of the afternoon sun. Dappled sunlight beneath the canopy of open-branched trees is an ideal spot for these plants. Avoid placing hostas in areas where they'll be exposed to harsh, direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
TemperatureHostas prefer moderate temperatures and are hardy in a temperature range from about 20 degrees to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate temperatures down to 30 degrees or colder without damage, but growth will slow or stop at these lower temperatures. The ideal growing temperature for Hosta 'Cherry Berry' falls between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit to promote healthy foliage and vigorous growth.
PruningPruning is essential for hostas, primarily to remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain aesthetic appeal and plant health. For Hosta 'Cherry Berry', prune in early spring to remove any foliage damaged over the winter and again in late fall to tidy up before dormancy. Cut back the flower stalks after they have finished blooming to redirect energy into leaf and root development. It's also a good practice to remove any leaves that show signs of disease or pest infestation immediately.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPlantain Lily requires well-draining soil with a mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingPlantain Lilies should be repotted every 3-4 years, or when they outgrow their containers or the soil becomes compacted.
Humidity & MistingPlantain Lily flourishes in moderate to high humidity, ideally between 50% and 70%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Plantain Lily in bright, indirect light, away from drafts.
Outdoor
Plant in partial to full shade, ensure soil stays moist.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Hosta 'Cherry Berry', commonly known as Variegated Hosta, begins its life as a seed, which germinates in soil with adequate moisture and temperature conditions. Upon sprouting, the seedling grows into a small plant with characteristic foliage, expanding its root system and developing leaves that are variegated with a mix of green and white or yellow hues. As a perennial, each growing season the Hosta 'Cherry Berry' emerges from the soil in the spring, with leaves unfurling and stems elongating, eventually blooming in mid to late summer with stalks of bell-shaped flowers that are often lavender or white. After flowering, the plant may produce seeds, enabling propagation, although many gardeners propagate the plant through division. In the fall, the foliage dies back as the plant enters dormancy for the winter, while the root system remains alive underground. The cycle resumes in spring when the plant once again pushes new growth from the crown.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Hosta 'Cherry Berry', commonly known as Hosta or Plantain Lily, is best propagated by division. The ideal time for propagating Hostas by division is in the early spring or late summer. To propagate by division, carefully dig around the parent plant to lift it from the ground, making sure to keep as many roots intact as possible. Gently separate the plant into smaller clumps, ensuring that each new section has at least 2 or 3 shoots attached to a portion of the root system. Replant these divisions immediately, spacing them according to the anticipated spread of the mature plant, typically about 30 inches (approximately 76 cm) apart. Water the new plants thoroughly to help establish them in their new location. This method takes advantage of the Hosta's natural clumping growth habit and is an efficient way to create new plants while also revitalizing the parent plant by reducing its size.
