Plantain Lily Hosta 'Let's Twist Again' (v)
ABOUT
Hosta 'Let's Twist Again' is a visually striking perennial plant known for its lush foliage that adds texture and interest to shaded garden areas. The leaves are the main attraction; they are variegated with a mix of colors. Typically, they boast a bright, creamy yellow to white center, bordered by a rich green margin that provides a beautiful contrast against the lighter centers. The leaves themselves have a unique appearance, with a twisted or curled form that adds to the hosta's playful name. This contorted aspect of the leaves gives them a dynamic sense of movement, as if they are swirling or dancing in the garden. The leaf surface can have a slightly shiny or glossy finish, reflecting light in a way that further emphasizes their variegation and shape. During the blooming period, which usually occurs in summer, the Hosta 'Let's Twist Again' produces delicate flower stalks that rise above the foliage. The flowers themselves are often a subtle shade of lavender to purple, and they are shaped like funnels or bells that dangle from the stems. The combination of unique foliage and these attractive blooms creates a pleasing aesthetic that can enhance any garden designed for shade. Overall, the appearance of Hosta 'Let's Twist Again' is characterized by its captivating leaf pattern and the whimsical twist of its foliage, paired with its charming flowers that offer an added layer of beauty. This hosta variety is a gardener's delight for its decorative qualities and its ability to thrive in low-light conditions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Plantain Lily, Funkia
Common names
Hosta 'Let's Twist Again'
ToxicityTo humans
The Hosta plant is generally not considered toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant may cause mild stomach upset in some individuals, but severe poisoning is uncommon. That being said, it is not advisable to consume any part of the Hosta plant due to the potential for gastrointestinal discomfort.
To pets
Hostas are known to be toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats. If a pet ingests any part of the plant, they may suffer from symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and a loss of appetite. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to depression of the central nervous system. If you suspect your pet has eaten Hosta, you should contact your veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Lavender
Height
1 foot 6 inches (45 centimeters)
Spread
2 feet (60 centimeters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy Care: Hostas are low-maintenance, hardy plants that require minimal upkeep once established.
- Shade Tolerance: This variety thrives in shaded areas where other plants might struggle, making it ideal for underplanting and wooded gardens.
- Attractive Foliage: 'Let's Twist Again' is known for its unique, twisted leaves which add visual interest and texture to the garden.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, Hostas can tolerate periods of drought, making them suitable for gardens with limited water availability.
- Long-Lasting: Hostas are perennial plants that return year after year, providing long-term garden aesthetics.
- Variety of Uses: Ideal for borders, ground cover, or as a focal point in garden beds and containers.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers of the Hosta can attract pollinators like bees, adding to the biodiversity of the garden ecosystem.
- Seasonal Interest: Though mainly known for their foliage, Hostas also produce flowers that can offer additional seasonal interest during the blooming period.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hosta leaves can be used in flower arrangements to add lush greenery and textural contrast.
- These plants can be utilized as a natural border or edging in garden beds, due to their clumping growth habit.
- Their large leaves act as a natural mulch, helping to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Hosta can be used in art and photography for capturing the intricate patterns and shapes of their leaves.
- They can serve as a living laboratory for children, teaching them about plant growth and botany.
- Select types of Hosta can be planted to prevent soil erosion on slopes due to their root systems.
- The variant 'Let's Twist Again' with its unique leaf structure can be a source of inspiration for designers and artists.
- Hosta plants are often used as a food source for slugs and snails, acting as a sacrificial plant to protect others in the garden.
- During a hosta bloom, the flowers can be used to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to gardens.
- Hostas can be planted under trees where other plants may struggle to grow, making use of the shade provided by the tree canopy.
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 their ability to thrive in various conditions, symbolizing the ability to withstand adversity.
- Devotion: Due to their lush foliage that lasts throughout the growing season, hostas represent loyalty and devotion in relationships.
- Longevity: Hostas can live for many years, expanding and growing larger with time, thereby symbolizing long life and permanence.
WaterHostas require even moisture and should be watered deeply about once a week, providing about an inch of water each time. In the absence of rainfall, this might translate to around 0.6 gallons for a medium-sized plant. During hotter, dryer weeks, more frequent watering may be necessary to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water hostas in the early morning to allow moisture on the leaves to dry and to reduce the risk of slug attraction and fungal diseases.
LightHostas, including 'Let's Twist Again', prefer dappled shade to partial sun. Bright, indirect light for a few hours a day is ideal, so planting them under the canopy of deciduous trees or on the east side of a structure where they are protected from the harsh afternoon sun is recommended. They can tolerate morning sun but should be shielded during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf scorch.
TemperatureHostas like 'Let's Twist Again' thrive in temperatures ranging from about 50°F at night up to 85°F during the day. They can survive temperatures as low as 30°F but should be protected from frost. This plant prefers a moderate climate and consistently cool to mild temperatures throughout the growing season for optimal growth.
PruningPruning hostas usually involves removing spent flower stalks and any damaged or yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth and improve appearance. This can be done as needed throughout the growing season. The best time for a major cleanup is in the early spring before the new growth begins or late fall after the first frost when leaves die back.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHostas require well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix of one-third garden soil, one-third peat moss, and one-third perlite or coarse sand is ideal, ensuring adequate drainage and aeration for the roots of Hosta 'Let's Twist Again'.
RepottingHostas such as 'Let's Twist Again' typically need repotting every 3 to 5 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. To maintain vigor, repot in the early spring before the leaves fully unfurl, or in the fall after the leaves die back.
Humidity & MistingHostas prefer moderate to high humidity levels but are quite adaptable. The ideal range for Hosta 'Let's Twist Again' is between 50% and 70% humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, away from dry heat sources.
Outdoor
Plant in part-shade to full shade, in moist soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleHosta 'Let's Twist Again' begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in well-drained soil, usually in the spring after the last frost. The seedling emerges and develops a root system, while foliage starts to grow from a central crown. As the plant matures, it grows larger leaves that are variegated and twisted, characteristic of this cultivar, entering its vegetative stage. During late spring to early summer, Hosta 'Let's Twist Again' enters the reproductive stage, where it sends up flower stalks with lavender blooms that attract pollinators. After flowering, seeds may be produced if pollination occurs, which can fall to the ground and potentially germinate to create new plants. In the fall, the foliage of the plant dies back as it enters dormancy, storing energy in the roots to survive the winter and begin the cycle anew in the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Early Summer
Propogation: For Hosta 'Let's Twist Again', the most popular method of propagation is division, which is typically performed in either spring or early fall. To propagate by division, gently lift the clump of the hosta out of the ground with a shovel or garden fork, taking care not to damage the roots. Wash or shake off excess soil so that you can clearly see the roots and natural divisions of the plant. Using a sharp, clean knife or garden shears, cut the crown and roots into sections, ensuring each section has at least two or three shoots and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions promptly, spacing them at a distance that allows for their mature size, and water them thoroughly. This process not only helps to propagate new plants but also rejuvenates the parent plant by allowing more room for growth.
