Plantain Lily Hosta 'Whirlwind' (fortunei) (v)
ABOUT
Hosta 'Whirlwind' is a striking perennial known for its unique foliage. The leaves are distinctively variegated, featuring a fascinating pattern. Each leaf typically has a pointed shape and is characterized by a bright, creamy-white or yellow center that swirls into a dark green edge. This contrasting coloration makes the 'Whirlwind' variety a standout in any garden space. The leaves possess a seersucker texture, with prominent veins that add depth and interest to the overall appearance of the plant. In addition to its beautiful leaves, Hosta 'Whirlwind' produces delicate flowers on tall stalks that rise above the foliage, adding a touch of elegance to its display. The flowers are typically a light lavender or pale purple hue, subtly complementing the dramatic foliage. This plant is appreciated not only for its visual appeal but also for its ability to brighten up shady areas in a garden with its vibrant leaf patterns.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Plantain Lily, Funkia, Giboshi
Common names
Hosta fortunei 'Whirlwind', Hosta 'Whirlwind' Fortunei (v).
ToxicityTo humans
Hostas are generally not considered toxic to humans. However, consuming any part of the plant is not advisable as it is not intended for human consumption. If large amounts were ingested, there could potentially be an upset stomach or other digestive discomfort due to the plant material that is not meant to be eaten.
To pets
Hostas are toxic to pets, particularly to cats and dogs. If a pet ingests any part of a hosta plant, they could experience symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or depression. The ingestion of significant amounts of the plant can lead to more severe symptoms and warrant immediate veterinary attention.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Lavender
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
3 feet (91 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Landscape Aesthetics: Hosta Whirlwind offers attractive foliage that can complement a wide range of garden designs.
- Shade Tolerance: This variety thrives in shaded areas where other plants may struggle.
- Low Maintenance: Hostas require minimal care once established, making them ideal for busy gardeners.
- Seasonal Interest: Its leaves change color as the season progresses, providing visual interest throughout the growing season.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, Hostas can tolerate periods of low water, making them suitable for drought-prone areas.
- Pest Resistance: While slugs and deer may target Hostas, Whirlwind is relatively resistant to pests compared to other varieties.
- Versatility: Hosta Whirlwind can be used in garden borders, as ground cover, or in container gardens.
- Soil Adaptability: It can grow in a variety of soil types, though it prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of Hosta Whirlwind can attract bees and other pollinators to the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Accents in floral arrangements: Hosta leaves, due to their varied textures and colors, can be used as a unique and long-lasting greenery in cut flower arrangements.
- Leaf casting: The large, textured leaves of Hostas make them perfect natural molds for creating concrete garden sculptures and decorative stepping stones.
- Educational tool: Hostas can be used in schools to teach students about plant growth, variegation, and shade gardening practices.
- Hobbies: Plant collectors might enjoy the challenge of growing different Hosta varieties and creating a dedicated Hosta garden with varying leaf shapes and colors.
- Garden design: Hostas can be used to create patterns and shapes in the garden due to their clumping nature and to highlight shadowed areas with their variegated foliage.
- Culinary decoration: Although not widely known, the blooms of Hosta plants can be used as edible garnishes in certain cuisines and add a unique touch to gourmet dishes.
- Companion planting: Hostas can be planted alongside other shade-loving perennials to help indicate soil health and moisture levels — they often require similar growing conditions.
- Photography: The striking leaves of the Hosta plant provide an excellent subject for botanical and garden photography, documenting the variations in texture and color.
- Crafting: Hosta leaves can be used in nature crafts, for example, by pressing and preserving them for crafting bookmarks, cards, or botanical prints.
- Wedding decor: Due to their elegant and lush appearance, Hosta leaves can be used in wedding bouquets and table centerpieces, especially in woodland or garden-themed weddings.
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 ability to thrive in shaded areas where other plants may struggle, symbolizing the capacity to endure and adapt to challenging conditions.
- Longevity: Hostas have a long lifespan and return year after year, making them a symbol of longevity and permanence.
- Devotion: With its lush foliage and reliable growth pattern, the Hosta represents devotion and loyalty in the plant world, akin to a steadfast presence in one's life.
- Prosperity: The specific variety 'Whirlwind' drawing from its fortunei lineage implies a connection to fortune, thus symbolizing prosperity and growth.
- Peace: The Hosta's broad leaves and calming green hues are often associated with tranquility and peace.
WaterHostas, commonly known as plantain lilies, require soil that is consistently moist but well-drained. For Hosta 'Whirlwind', water the plant deeply once a week, ensuring you provide about one inch of water each time. During hot and dry periods, increase the frequency to twice a week. For an average-sized hosta, this would equate to approximately one to 1.5 gallons of water for each watering session, depending on the soil and weather conditions. Always avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf rot and instead aim the water directly at the soil around the base of the plant.
LightPlantain lilies thrive best in dappled sunlight to partial shade. Hosta 'Whirlwind' should be placed in a location where it receives morning sun and afternoon shade to protect it from the harsh midday heat. A spot under a tree or on the north or east side of a building is ideal for providing the optimal light conditions.
TemperaturePlantain lilies are hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but for Hosta 'Whirlwind', they prefer temperatures between 50°F and 75°F for ideal growth. They can survive temperature dips down to 30°F and withstand short periods of heat above 80°F, but prolonged exposure to temperatures outside of the preferred range can damage the plant.
PruningPlantain lilies do not require regular pruning, but for Hosta 'Whirlwind', it's beneficial to remove spent flower stalks after blooming to direct energy back into leaf and root development. Prune away any damaged or dead leaves in early spring or as needed throughout the growing season to maintain a tidy appearance and improve air circulation.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHosta 'Whirlwind', commonly known as Whirlwind Hosta, thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter such as compost or peat moss. A slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.5-7 is ideal. A mixture incorporating one-third garden soil, one-third peat moss, and one-third perlite or vermiculite can be very effective.
RepottingWhirlwind Hosta typically requires repotting every 3 to 4 years. The best time to repot is in the early spring before the leaves fully emerge. Repotting provides fresh nutrients and space for continued root growth.
Humidity & MistingWhirlwind Hosta prefers a moderate humidity environment. While they can tolerate a range of humidity levels, maintaining humidity around 50-60% will support healthy leaf development and minimize stress on the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, away from direct sun.
Outdoor
Plant in dappled shade, protect from harsh sun.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA.
Life cycleHosta 'Whirlwind' typically emerges from dormancy in early spring as temperatures rise, initially displaying tightly rolled leaves known as "pips." As the season progresses, these leaves unfurl and expand, revealing the distinctive variegated foliage characteristic of 'Whirlwind' that may change color from creamy white to dark green throughout the growing season. Throughout late spring to midsummer, the plant reaches maturity and may produce tall flower scapes that bear lavender or white bell-shaped flowers, attractive to bees and hummingbirds. After flowering, the plant directs energy back to the foliage and root system, strengthening it for the following year. As autumn approaches and temperatures drop, the leaves begin to die back, signaling the plant's preparation for winter dormancy. The cycle repeats when the plant re-emerges from its rootstock after winter, with the ability to produce offsets or "pups" contributing to colony expansion over time.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer
Hosta 'Whirlwind', commonly known as Hosta or Plantain Lily, can be propagated most effectively through division. The best time for this process is in early spring or early fall, when the plant is not in active growth. To divide a Hosta, gently dig around the clump and lift it out of the ground with a spade. Clear away excess soil and identify natural divisions in the root system. Using a sharp knife or spade, cut through the crown and roots to create smaller clumps, each with at least two or three shoots. Replant the divisions immediately at the same soil depth as the original plant, spacing them about 24 inches (approximately 61 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly to help establish their roots.
