Hosta Hosta 'Prince of Wales'
ABOUT
The Hosta 'Prince of Wales' is an ornamental plant known for its lush foliage. The leaves of this hosta are notably large, heart-shaped, and have a unique texture. They are a rich green color, often with a slight bluish or greyish tint, which can give them a stunning robust appearance in garden settings. The leaf surface may also display a noticeable sheen and a deeply veined pattern that adds to the visual interest of the plant. During the blooming period, the Hosta 'Prince of Wales' produces tall stalks that bear delicate flowers. These blossoms are typically a light lavender or sometimes white, and they form a tubular, bell-like shape. The flowers are arranged on the stalk in a manner that resembles a loose spike, and they can add a gentle contrast to the dense foliage below. As the plant matures, these floral displays become more pronounced and can add a graceful vertical element to the plant's overall shape. The blossoms are also known to attract pollinating insects, adding to the ecological contribution of the plant. Overall, the Hosta 'Prince of Wales' is admired mainly for its attractive foliage that creates a lush, verdant presence in shaded garden areas. It is often used as a ground cover or as a feature in shaded borders and woodland gardens, where its leaves contribute significantly to the texture and visual depth of the plantings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Plantain Lily, Funkia
Common names
Funkia 'Prince of Wales', Hemerocallis 'Prince of Wales'
ToxicityTo humans
Hostas, including the 'Prince of Wales' variety, are not commonly known to be toxic to humans. They are often grown in gardens and landscapes without special consideration for human safety. While consuming hostas is not recommended, as they are not considered edible for humans, ingestion typically does not lead to serious poisoning or toxic consequences. However, if ingestion does occur, it is always wise to monitor for any adverse reactions and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms develop.
To pets
Hostas, including the 'Prince of Wales' variety, are known to be toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats. The plant contains saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal upset in animals if ingested. Symptoms of hosta poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes depression. In severe cases or if a large amount is consumed, it might lead to more serious complications. If you suspect your pet has ingested hosta, it is important to contact a veterinarian promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Varies
Flower color
Lavender
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
3 feet (90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Japan China Korea
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to grow - Hostas are known for being hardy and low-maintenance, perfect for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Shade tolerance - Hostas, including 'Prince of Wales', thrive in shady spots where other plants might struggle.
- Ornamental foliage - Hostas are primarily grown for their attractive foliage and the 'Prince of Wales' variety has striking, large leaves.
- Varied texture - The leaves provide a textural contrast with other plants in the garden, adding depth and interest.
- Season-long interest - Hostas maintain their appearance from spring to fall, offering extended visual appeal.
- Stability and structure - Their foliage provides a stable backdrop and structure to garden beds and borders.
- Drought resistance - Once established, Hostas can tolerate periods of drought with minimal impact.
- Pest resistance - Hostas are resistant to many pests, although slugs and deer can occasionally be a problem.
- Versatility in landscape design - Their varied sizes and colors allow them to fit into many garden design schemes.
- Propagation - Hostas can be easily divided to produce new plants, making them cost-efficient in the long run.
Medical Properties- This 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 as a natural dye for fabrics, where the leaves produce varying shades of green depending on the mordant used.
- The large leaves of the Hosta can be used in floral arrangements to provide a dramatic backdrop for smaller flowers.
- Hosta leaves can be used as impromptu "cups" or "plates" in outdoor settings, suitable for holding light snacks or as a base for arranging fruit.
- Gardeners can use Hosta plants to create a lush ground cover in shaded areas where other plants might struggle to thrive.
- The variegated patterns of Hosta leaves can be pressed and used in craft projects, such as creating botanical prints or in decoupage.
- Hostas are sometimes used as companion plants to help indicate soil health, as they will show signs of distress in poor conditions.
- The robustness of Hosta plants allows them to be used as living borders or edging in gardens, providing both a visual boundary and contrasting texture.
- With their dense growth, Hostas can be planted to help prevent soil erosion on slopes or in areas with loose dirt.
- In terrariums or bottle gardens that mimic a woodland setting, miniature Hosta varieties can be a key feature due to their shade tolerance and leaf structure.
- Hosta leaves can serve as a natural mulch as they break down, providing nutrients to the soil and suppressing weed growth.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiHostas are not specifically referenced in traditional Feng Shui practice, but in a general sense, as leafy green plants, they can be used to introduce a wood element to an area, promoting growth and vitality. Their lush foliage can soften the straight lines and sharp corners that can create negative energy, according to Feng Shui principles. Place them in the Wealth area (southeast) of a garden or home to encourage abundance.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityHostas are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Hostas are known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in shady conditions, symbolizing the ability to overcome challenging situations.
- Self-Care: The preference of the hosta for shade over direct sunlight can be seen as a reminder to look after oneself and avoid harsh conditions.
- Devotion: The way hostas return each year can represent loyalty and the reliability of being there for someone year after year.
- Heartiness: Due to its robust nature, the hosta symbolizes endurance and the capacity to persist through variable climates and changes.
- Growth: Representing personal growth, as hostas continue to expand and grow fuller with each passing season.
WaterHostas, including the 'Prince of Wales', require consistent moisture and should be watered deeply once a week with about one gallon of water per plant. During hot or dry periods, the watering frequency may need to increase to twice per week. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases; instead, focus the water at the base of the plant. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
LightHostas, commonly known as the 'Prince of Wales', thrive in dappled shade and can also tolerate morning sun followed by afternoon shade. Avoid placing the plant in direct afternoon sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. An ideal spot is under the canopy of trees where the plant receives filtered sunlight.
TemperatureThe 'Prince of Wales' Hosta prefers temperate climates and can typically endure temperatures ranging from 30 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideal growth occurs between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. These hostas are hardy and can survive winter temperatures down to about -40 degrees, going dormant in the colder months.
PruningPruning 'Prince of Wales' Hostas primarily involves removing dead or damaged leaves throughout the growing season to maintain appearance and health. They should be cut back to the ground in late fall after the first frost or in early spring before new growth starts. Pruning is not usually needed for shaping as hostas maintain their form naturally.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHostas prefer a soil mix with good drainage and organic matter. Incorporate peat moss, compost, and perlite to create an airy, nutrient-rich blend. They thrive in a slightly acidic to neutral pH, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingHostas, including 'Prince of Wales', typically need repotting every few years. It's best to repot them in the spring as they emerge from dormancy.
Humidity & MistingHostas are tolerant of a range of humidity levels but prefer a moderate to high humidity environment, which mimics their natural woodland habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For indoor Hostas, ensure bright, indirect light and room to grow.
Outdoor
Plant in dappled shade with moist, rich soil for outdoor Hostas.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleHosta 'Prince of Wales', commonly known as Plantain Lily, begins its life cycle as a dormant rhizome or division planted in spring or fall. In early spring, shoots emerge from the soil, rapidly unfurling into broad, variegated leaves that form a lush foliage mound. Throughout late spring or early summer, the plant sends up tall flower scapes bearing tubular, lavender or white flowers attractive to bees and hummingbirds. After blooming, the plant focuses on photosynthesis and root growth until autumn, when the leaves yellow and die back with the first frost. The rhizome overwinters underground, with energy stores ensuring survival until the cycle restarts the following spring. Over the years, the plant gradually increases in size, producing a more extensive clump that can be divided to propagate new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to early fall
The Hosta, commonly known as the 'Prince of Wales', is a plant that is most popularly propagated through division. The best time to propagate Hosta by division is in the early spring as the new shoots, or 'eyes', are just beginning to emerge from the ground. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire Hosta plant, ensuring you preserve as much of the root system as possible. Then, using a sharp knife or spade, divide the clump into smaller sections, making sure each section has at least two to three shoots and a portion of the root system. These divisions can then be replanted at the same depth they were growing at originally, spaced about 30 inches (approximately 76 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions well to help establish them in their new location. This method of vegetative propagation maintains the varietal characteristics of the 'Prince of Wales' Hosta, ensuring the new plants are true to type.
