Plantain Lily Hosta 'White Feather' (undulata)
ABOUT
Hosta 'White Feather' showcases a distinctive and striking appearance, characterized by its unique foliage. Initially, the leaves emerge as a pure white, giving the impression of delicate feathers alighting upon the garden bed. As the season progresses, the leaves gradually develop green streaks and edges, transitioning to a mottled mix of white and green, which creates a visually stunning display against the backdrop of the typical garden greenery. This dynamic transformation of leaf color adds a layer of visual interest throughout the growing season. The leaves themselves are broad and heart-shaped, growing in a mounded form that elegantly displays the foliage's variegated pattern. In addition to its leaves, Hosta 'White Feather' produces tall spikes adorned with bell-shaped flowers, usually in hues of lavender or purplish, adding an extra touch of color and contrast to the plant. The blooms are known to attract pollinators like bees, adding not only beauty but also a functional aspect to gardens. Overall, with its changing leaf coloration and showy blooms, Hosta 'White Feather' is a captivating choice for gardeners looking to add a unique and eye-catching specimen to their shade gardens or borders.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae.
Synonyms
Plantain Lily, Funkia, Hosta.
Common names
Hosta undulata 'Albopicta', Funkia undulata 'Albopicta', Hosta 'Albopicta'.
ToxicityTo humans
Hosta plants, including the 'White Feather' variety, are generally not considered toxic to humans. They are often grown in gardens without concern for human safety. However, if any part of the plant is ingested in large quantities, it could potentially cause some mild stomach upset due to the plant's saponins. These are natural chemicals that can have a foaming action, which might cause irritation to the stomach lining. This could result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. In general, though, the toxicity is quite low, and significant poisoning from eating hosta leaves or other parts is rare. Still, it is advisable not to ingest any part of the plant, considering that it is not intended for human consumption.
To pets
Hosta plants are indeed toxic to pets, especially to cats and dogs. If a pet ingests any part of a hosta plant, it could potentially lead to symptoms of toxicity due to the saponins present within the plant tissue. These symptoms could include vomiting, diarrhea, and in more severe cases, depression of the central nervous system. Although these plants are attractive and may tempt pets, consumption should be prevented to avoid the gastrointestinal upset and other potential adverse effects. If you suspect your pet has eaten any part of a hosta plant, you should contact your veterinarian promptly to ensure your pet receives appropriate care.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Lavender
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The Hosta 'White Feather' offers unique foliage with initial pure white leaves that gradually develop green streaks, providing a striking contrast in the garden.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant thrives in shady areas where other plants might not grow as well, making it ideal for adding interest to darker parts of the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Hostas require minimal care other than occasional watering and removal of dead foliage.
- Ground Cover: Due to its clumping growth habit, Hosta 'White Feather' is effective as ground cover, suppressing weeds and stabilizing soil.
- Durability: Hostas are known for their hardiness and the 'White Feather' variety is no exception, being able to withstand cold climates.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers of the Hosta 'White Feather' attract pollinators such as bees, and the foliage may provide shelter for small wildlife.
- Long-Lived: Hostas are perennial plants that can live for many years, making them a good investment for the garden.
- Texture Addition: The distinct leaves of the Hosta 'White Feather' add texture variation to garden compositions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The striking white foliage of Hosta 'White Feather' can be used by photographers as a natural prop to add texture and contrast to plant and garden photography.
- Natural Art Supplies: The leaves of this Hosta can be pressed and dried to be used in crafting for scrapbooking, card making, or other paper art projects.
- Garden Design: Hosta 'White Feather' can be used to create a 'moon garden' effect, with its pale leaves reflecting moonlight and providing a luminous quality to nighttime gardens.
- Teaching Tool: This variety of Hosta can be utilized in educational settings to teach about variegation in plants and how it can sometimes result from viral infections or mutations.
- Eco-Friendly Confetti: Dried, crumbled leaves of the Hosta 'White Feather' can be used as a biodegradable confetti option for outdoor celebrations.
- Landscape Marking: The distinct coloration can be used to mark boundaries or pathways in a landscape without the need for artificial markers.
- Garden Theme Creation: Hosta 'White Feather' is an excellent plant for creating themed garden spaces, such as fairy or fantasy gardens due to its unique appearance.
- Seasonal Decor: Leaves can be included in seasonal floral arrangements or as part of autumnal wreaths and decor due to their interesting color and texture.
- Backdrops for Insect Photography: The bright leaves can provide a striking background for photographing garden insects and showcasing the biodiversity of a garden.
- Natural Fabric Dyes: Although not commonly used for this purpose, the leaves have the potential to be used in creating natural fabric dyes, experimenting with the light hues they might produce.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Hosta is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Hosta is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience - Hostas are known for their ability to thrive in shade and difficult conditions, making them a symbol of enduring through adversity.
- Hope - The 'White Feather' variety, with its striking white leaves, can symbolize hope and brightness in dark times, given its ability to stand out in shade.
- Devotion - Due to their perennial nature, coming back year after year, hostas can represent devotion and loyalty in relationships.
- Peace - The calming green and white hues of Hosta 'White Feather' bring to mind a sense of tranquility and peace.
- Unique Beauty - With its unusual white leaves, Hosta 'White Feather' suggests the beauty in being different and standing out from the crowd.
WaterHostas, also known as plantain lilies, prefer consistently moist soil, so it's important to water them regularly. Water White Feather hostas deeply once a week with about one gallon of water per plant, ensuring thorough soil saturation. During particularly hot or dry periods, increase watering frequency to twice a week. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of leaf burns and fungal diseases. Cut back on watering as the plant goes dormant in the fall to prevent root rot.
LightWhite Feather hostas thrive in partial to full shade conditions. They do best when planted in a spot that provides morning light with protection from the harsh afternoon sun. Dappled sunlight under trees or on the north side of buildings is ideal to prevent their leaves from scorching.
TemperatureWhite Feather hostas are hardy and can tolerate a temperature range from approximately 30°F to 85°F, but they flourish in temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. They can survive winter freezes and go dormant, returning in the spring when the temperature starts to rise above 30°F.
PruningPrune White Feather hostas to remove dead or damaged leaves throughout the growing season to encourage healthy growth and improve air circulation. Major pruning is best done in early spring or late fall after the plant has gone dormant. Remove the flower stalks after blooms fade to direct energy back to the foliage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Hosta, commonly known as Plantain Lily, thrives best in rich, moist, well-draining soil with a pH range from 6.0 to 7.5. The best soil mix for this perennial is one that combines organic matter such as peat moss or compost with garden soil and a handful of perlite to improve drainage.
RepottingHostas, including the 'White Feather' variety, generally need to be repotted every 3 to 5 years. They prefer to be somewhat root-bound, so frequent repotting is not necessary unless the plant has outgrown its current container.
Humidity & MistingHostas, like 'White Feather', prefer a humidity level that mimics their natural woodland environment, consistent with average to slightly above-average humidity levels. No specific humidity requirements are mentioned, but a range similar to outdoor conditions is beneficial.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and ensure the soil is well-draining.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade; rich, moist soil; protect from afternoon sun.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleHosta 'White Feather' begins its life cycle as a dormant root structure or rhizome, which breaks dormancy in early spring. The plant then sends up shoots that unfurl into distinctive white leaves, often with streaks or margins of green as the season progresses. During late spring to early summer, Hosta 'White Feather' produces stalks that bear bell-shaped flowers, typically ranging from white to lavender in color, attracting pollinators. After flowering, seeds may develop, but gardeners often propagate Hosta 'White Feather' vegetatively by dividing the rhizomes in the fall. Through summer and into fall, the foliage matures and may become greener before the plant becomes dormant again with the onset of cooler temperatures. With each year, this perennial may increase in size and leaf volume, perpetuating its life cycle for several years.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The Hosta 'White Feather', also known as undulata, is typically propagated by division, a method that is best performed in either the spring as the shoots are just emerging or in the fall after the leaves have died back. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant with a garden shovel, ensuring you maintain a generous amount of soil around the root system. Gently wash or shake off excess soil to reveal the root structure and identify clear segments or crowns. Using a sharp knife or spade, divide the plant into smaller sections, making sure each new section has at least 2-3 shoots or eyes and sufficient roots. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at previously, spacing them at least 12 inches (about 30 cm) apart to allow for ample growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and maintain consistent moisture as the plants establish.
