Plantain Lily Hosta 'Sum and Substance'
ABOUT
Hosta 'Sum and Substance' is a striking perennial known for its large, heart-shaped leaves that are a vibrant chartreuse to gold color, depending on the amount of sunlight they receive. The texture of the leaves is notable; they possess a heavily corrugated surface that offers a tactile experience. Over time, the plant forms an impressive, dense mound of foliage. In the summer months, the Hosta 'Sum and Substance' produces tall flower scapes that tower above the foliage. The blooms are bell-shaped and a soft lavender to white color that contrasts beautifully against the bold leaves. These flowers are also a favorite of bees and hummingbirds, adding an extra layer of life to the garden. This variety of hosta is prized for its lush, oversized leaves that create a dramatic effect in shade gardens or as a specimen plant. The leaves not only boast an attractive color but also a notable sheen, giving the plant an almost luminous quality in the right lighting conditions. Overall, Hosta 'Sum and Substance' is beloved for its bold texture, large leaf structure, and the bright splash of color it brings to shaded garden spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Plantain Lily, Funkia
Common names
Hosta 'Sum and Substance'
ToxicityTo humans
Hosta 'Sum and Substance', commonly known as Hosta, is not considered highly toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant might result in mild stomach upset or diarrhea in some individuals due to the saponins it contains. It's generally not associated with severe toxicity or long-term health consequences in humans when ingested in small quantities. However, it is always advisable to prevent the consumption of non-food plants to avoid any potential adverse reactions.
To pets
Hosta, the common name for 'Sum and Substance', is considered toxic to pets, specifically to cats and dogs. If a pet ingests Hosta, they might exhibit symptoms of poisoning that can include vomiting, diarrhea, and, in more serious cases, depression. The plant contains saponins, which are the toxic compounds responsible for these symptoms. Seek veterinary care promptly if you suspect your pet has consumed any part of a Hosta plant to prevent more severe health consequences.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lavender
Height
3 feet (91 cm)
Spread
6 feet (183 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Large Foliage: Hostas feature large, attractive leaves that add texture and visual interest to garden spaces.
- Shade Tolerance: Hostas, including 'Sum and Substance', are particularly well-suited for shady areas where many other plants would not thrive.
- Easy to Grow: They are known for being low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established.
- Drought Resistance: While they prefer moist soil, Hostas can tolerate periods of drought once they are well-established.
- Long-Lived Perennials: Hostas can live for many years, coming back each spring to provide consistent foliage.
- Variety of Uses: Hostas are versatile and can be used in many garden designs, including borders, ground covers, or as accent plants.
- Seasonal Interest: Most Hostas have a long season of interest, from spring until fall frost.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers of Hostas can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafting a Natural Dye: Hosta 'Sum and Substance' can be used in dye-making for fabrics, providing a range of subtle green hues.
- Creating a Lush Table Centerpiece: The large leaves can be used to create vibrant, green centerpieces for events or as decoration on a dining table.
- As a Companion Plant: Hostas can be planted alongside other shade-loving plants to help suppress weeds due to their broad leaves covering the ground.
- Leaf Casting: The leaves can be used in garden craft projects to create decorative concrete leaf castings for garden ornaments or stepping stones.
- Edging a Garden Path: The plants can act as a lush edge to garden pathways, giving a structured yet natural look.
- In Terrariums: Smaller leaves or cut portions of the plant can be incorporated into terrariums for a pop of greenery indoors.
- Backdrops for Photography: The large size and attractive foliage of 'Sum and Substance' can serve as a green backdrop for plant photography or portraits.
- Culinary Garnishes: Though not commonly known for culinary use, the smaller leaves can be used as a decorative garnish for plating dishes.
- Floral Arrangements: Broad leaves can be incorporated into floral arrangements to add volume and a contrasting texture to delicate flowers.
- Garden Sculpture Embellishment: Leaves and stems can be used to add a living element to garden sculptures or art installations.
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: The Hosta plant is known for its strong survival instinct and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, symbolizing the ability to withstand and adapt to different life circumstances.
- Heartiness: With its robust nature and large leaves, Hostas represent an enduring and sturdy character, often associated with a person's hearty disposition.
- Devotion: Hosta plants often grow in clusters and return year after year, which can symbolize loyalty, devotion, and the long-term bonds we share with others.
- Friendship: The lush, full spread of the leaves can stand for the expansive nature of friendship and the plant itself is commonly shared among gardeners, highlighting connections and community.
WaterHostas, commonly known as plantain lilies, require consistent moisture, so water 'Sum and Substance' hostas deeply once a week, providing about one gallon of water per plant. During hot or dry periods, increase watering frequency to ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. It's best to water in the early morning to allow moisture on the leaves to dry before the peak sun hours, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Avoid overhead watering if possible; instead, apply water directly to the soil to keep the leaves dry. In the peak of summer, the plant may need up to two gallons per week, especially if planted in sandy soil which drains quickly.
LightHostas, including 'Sum and Substance', thrive best in partial shade to filtered sun. A location with morning sunlight and afternoon shade is ideal for 'Sum and Substance', as it allows the plant to receive the light it needs without being exposed to the harsh midday sun. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little can reduce foliage growth and vigor.
TemperatureThe 'Sum and Substance' hosta is hardy and can withstand a wide range of temperatures, typically growing well in areas where the temperature stays between 40°F and 85°F, which hosts are most vigorous. The plant can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about -40°F. Throughout its growing season, an ideal average temperature range for this hosta is between 60°F and 75°F.
PruningPruning 'Sum and Substance' hosta is mostly about removing spent flower stalks and damaged or dead leaves. It's best to prune in the late fall or early spring before new growth starts. Cut back the flower stalks to the base of the plant after the blooms have faded to put the hosta's energy back into leaf and root development. If any leaves are damaged or diseased during the growing season, remove them immediately to maintain the plant's health. Prune sparingly, only as needed to keep the plant tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHostas thrive in well-draining, moisture-retentive soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A good mix for 'Sum and Substance' includes equal parts of loam, peat moss, and perlite to ensure the soil stays aerated yet damp. A layer of organic mulch can be beneficial to help maintain soil moisture.
Repotting'Sum and Substance' Hosta should be repotted every 3 to 5 years to refresh the soil and accommodate its growing size. Division of the plant can be done during repotting, if necessary, to control its size or to propagate new plants.
Humidity & MistingHostas prefer moderate to high humidity but are generally tolerant of various humidity levels. 'Sum and Substance' will do well with ambient outdoor humidity or in a naturally humid environment indoors without extra measures.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; keep soil moist but not soggy.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade; enrich with organic matter; mulch well.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Hosta 'Sum and Substance', commonly known as Plantain Lily, begins its life as a dormant rhizome or division planted in the soil during early spring or fall. Once temperatures warm, it breaks dormancy, sprouting strong, upright shoots that expand into large, heart-shaped, chartreuse to gold leaves. Throughout the summer, the Plantain Lily matures and may produce tall flower stalks bearing lavender to white, bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators. After flowering, the plant may produce viable seeds that can be dispersed to start new plants, although many gardeners propagate via division. As autumn approaches, the foliage of the Plantain Lily dies back with the first frosts and the plant enters a period of dormancy, conserving energy within the rhizome. The cycle repeats when temperatures rise again in the following spring, with the Hosta 'Sum and Substance' emerging once more to continue its growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Spring to Early Summer
Hosta 'Sum and Substance', commonly known as Hosta or Plantain Lily, can be propagated effectively via division, which is the most popular method for this plant. Propagation is best done in the spring or early fall. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, ensuring that you maintain a good portion of the root system intact. With a sharp and clean knife or spade, divide the plant into smaller sections, making sure that each division has at least two or three shoots or "eyes" and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions immediately, spacing them at least 30 to 36 inches (about 76 to 91 cm) apart to give them room to reach their full size. Water the new plantings thoroughly to settle the soil and remove any air pockets. Divisions should establish themselves quickly and will often reach a mature size within a few growing seasons.
