Plantain Lily Hosta (Tardiana Group) 'June' (PBR) (v)
ABOUT
The Hosta 'June' is a lush, shade-loving perennial known for its stunning foliage. The leaves are striking, with a unique variegation pattern that makes it a standout in any garden. The heart-shaped leaves have a combination of colors; they typically feature a blue-green margin that frames the leaf's chartreuse to yellowish center, creating a beautiful contrast. During the growing season, the variegation can change, evolving in intensity depending on the light conditions it receives. In brighter light, the yellow center may become more cream-colored, while in shade, it remains a more muted yellow. The leaves themselves are of substantial substance, lending the foliage a robust and textured appearance. The Hosta 'June' also produces delicate flowers. In the blooming period, which is generally in midsummer, it sends up flower stalks that bear bell-shaped flowers, usually in shades of lavender to pale violet. These flowers are a lovely complement to the variegated foliage and add an additional layer of interest to the plant. Overall, the Hosta 'June' is admired for its ornamental leaves that bring a splash of color and varying textures to a garden, particularly in those areas where sunlight is scarce. Its foliage forms a dense, mounding habit, creating a striking display that lasts throughout the growing season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Plantain Lily, Funkia
Common names
Hosta 'June'
ToxicityTo humans
Hostas, including the Hosta 'June', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. They do not usually pose a significant threat if ingested in small quantities. However, it is always wise to avoid eating any plant unless you are certain it is safe for consumption, as individual reactions and sensitivities can vary.
To pets
Hostas, including the Hosta 'June', are known to be toxic to pets, especially dogs and cats. If a pet ingests any part of a hosta plant, they may exhibit symptoms of poisoning which can include vomiting, diarrhea, and depression. Severe cases, though rare, could lead to more significant complications, and it is advisable to seek veterinary care if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of a hosta plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Lavender
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
2-2.5 feet (60-75 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Northeast Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Hosta 'June' offers striking foliage with beautiful variegation, enhancing the visual interest of gardens and landscapes.
- Shade Tolerance: It is well-suited for shady areas where many other plants may struggle to grow.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Hosta 'June' requires minimal care, making it a convenient option for a variety of gardeners.
- Soil Adaptability: Hosta 'June' can thrive in a wide range of soil types, provided the soil is well-draining.
- Pest Resistance: This plant has a good level of resistance to common garden pests such as slugs and deer.
- Drought Tolerance: While it prefers moist conditions, Hosta 'June' can tolerate periods of drought once it's well-established.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers a long interest period from spring through fall, with foliage that remains attractive throughout the growing season.
- Container Gardening: Hosta 'June' can be grown in containers, allowing it to be featured on patios, balconies, and other small spaces.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses```html
- Container Gardening: Hostas can thrive in pots or other containers, making them a versatile choice for decks, patios, or areas with poor soil.
- Border Plants: With their leaf variety, Hostas like 'June' can create attractive borders along walkways or garden beds.
- Underplanting for Trees and Shrubs: Hostas are great understory plants for trees and larger shrubs, filling the space with color and texture.
- Water Garden Accent: Hostas can be planted near water features to add foliage interest without the need for frequent watering.
- Foliage Contrast: 'June' Hostas, with their unique leaf coloration, are excellent for pairing with other plants to provide contrast in shade gardens.
- Textural Variation: The leaves of Hostas provide a lush, coarse texture that can contrast nicely with the finer texture of ferns or grass-like plants.
- Garden Art Backdrop: The broad leaves of Hostas serve as a natural backdrop to highlight garden sculptures or decorative elements.
- Seasonal Ground Cover: Hosta plants can function as a ground cover, filling in areas where other plants might struggle, especially in cooler seasons.
- Wedding Decor: The foliage of Hostas can be used in floral arrangements or as part of table centerpieces for green-themed weddings or events.
- Erosion Control: Hostas can help prevent soil erosion in shady areas where other plants might not grow as vigorously.
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 ability to thrive in shady gardens where other plants might struggle, symbolizing the ability to grow and flourish in less than ideal conditions.
- Devotion: With their lush foliage that returns reliably every year, hostas may symbolize dedication and loyalty in relationships and life pursuits.
- Heartiness: The robust nature of hostas, with their thick leaves and ability to grow in various climates, can represent strength and endurance.
- Versatility: Hostas come in a wide variety of colors and sizes, symbolizing adaptability and flexibility in life's circumstances.
- Solitude: They often grow in shaded and tranquil areas of the garden, which can symbolize peace, reflection, and the enjoyment of solitude.
- Welcome: The broad leaves of hostas are sometimes seen as open hands and can symbolize an inviting presence, welcoming friends and family into one's home or life.
WaterHostas require consistent moisture, so it's essential to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. These plants should be watered deeply once a week, approximately with one inch of water each time, or more frequently during hot, dry spells. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf burn and instead, water at the base to minimize the risk of fungal diseases. During the winter, reduce watering as the plant goes dormant.
LightHostas, including the June Hosta, thrive best in dappled shade to part sun. They should be placed in a location that avoids the harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch. Morning light with afternoon shade or filtered light under trees is ideal for this plant.
TemperatureHostas prefer moderate temperatures and can survive in temperatures from 30 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they thrive best in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Provide some protection if the temperature drops near freezing to avoid damage to the foliage.
PruningPruning June Hostas mainly involves removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain its appearance and health. Cut away spent flower stalks after blooming to redirect energy to the plant. The best time for pruning is in the spring to cut back any foliage damaged over the winter, and after flowering to clean up the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHostas prefer well-draining soil with a high organic matter content. A good mix for Hosta 'June' would be one part garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand to enhance drainage. The pH should ideally be between 6.0 and 7.5.
RepottingHostas like 'June' typically need repotting every 3 to 4 years. It is best done in the spring before the leaves fully unfurl or in the late summer after the plant has finished blooming.
Humidity & MistingHostas, including 'June', thrive in moderate humidity levels. They are not particularly demanding but benefit from a humidity level around 50-60%. Avoid overly dry environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist.
Outdoor
Partial shade area, moist well-drained soil, protect from direct sun.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleHosta 'June' begins its life cycle as a dormant rhizome or division planted in early spring or fall. It starts to sprout with the arrival of warmer temperatures, forming a rosette of blue-green leaves with chartreuse to yellow centers. Throughout spring and summer, the leaves mature, and the plant forms a clump that expands over time. In mid to late summer, flower scapes emerge, bearing pale lavender to white flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. After blooming, the flowers fade, and seed pods may develop, although Hosta 'June' is often propagated vegetatively rather than by seed. With the onset of cooler fall weather, the Hosta 'June' foliage dies back and the plant reenters dormancy, ready to restart the cycle the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The Hosta, commonly known as plantain lily, is often propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this perennial. The ideal time for dividing Hostas is in spring as the new shoots, referred to as "eyes," are just starting to emerge from the ground. Gardeners typically wait until the shoots are about 2 to 4 inches tall. To propagate by division, the clump should be carefully dug up and the roots washed to remove soil so that the eyes and root structure are visible. Using a sharp, sterile knife, the clump can be sliced into smaller sections, each containing at least two or three shoots with accompanying roots. These divisions can then be replanted at the same soil depth they were previously growing at, spaced approximately 18 to 30 inches apart (45 to 76 centimeters) to allow for adequate growth. It is important to keep newly planted divisions well-watered as they establish themselves.
