White Variegated Hosta Hosta fortunei var. albopicta (v)

Water

The Hosta, commonly known as Funkia, should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water which equates to approximately 0.623 gallons per square foot of soil. This frequency should be increased to twice per week during periods of drought or extreme heat. The water should be applied directly to the base of the plant, avoiding overhead watering to minimize the risk of leaf diseases. Funkias planted in containers may require more frequent watering, especially if the weather is hot and dry. Always check the soil moisture before watering, as overwatering can lead to root rot.

Light

Funkias thrive in conditions of partial to full shade, making them ideal for spots that do not receive intense direct sunlight. The best location for a Funkia is one where it can enjoy the coolness and protection of filtered sunlight or morning sun followed by shade in the afternoon. A place under deciduous trees that provide dappled sunlight throughout the day is also favorable for this plant.

Temperature

Funkias prefer moderate temperatures and will grow best when the temperature ranges between 50°F and 75°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature down to about 30°F but should be protected from hard freezes. Funkias become dormant in winter and can survive up to a maximum temperature of around 85°F, although extended periods of high heat can stress the plant.

Pruning

Funkias should be pruned to remove dead or damaged leaves, which helps to maintain the plant's appearance and health. Pruning is best done in early spring before new growth begins or in late fall after the plant has died back. Occasional removal of spent flower stalks after blooming can encourage a tidier appearance, but regular pruning is generally minimal for this plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Fortunei Hosta (Hosta fortunei var. albopicta) should be rich, moist, well-draining, and high in organic matter. A mix of garden soil, compost, and a bit of perlite or coarse sand can provide the appropriate structure and nutrients. The ideal soil pH for Fortunei Hosta ranges from 6.0 to 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral.

Repotting

Fortunei Hostas typically need to be repotted every 2-3 years to replenish the soil and divide the plants if they become too crowded. Repotting is best done in the spring before the leaves fully emerge.

Humidity & Misting

Fortunei Hostas prefer a humid environment but are quite adaptable to average outdoor humidity levels. They thrive when the humidity is above 50% but can tolerate lower levels without significant issues.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Keep Fortunei Hosta in bright, indirect light with high humidity.

• Outdoor

  Plant Fortunei Hosta in shade to part-shade in moist soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Hosta fortunei var. albopicta, commonly known as Hosta or Plantain Lily, begins its life when seeds germinate in moist, well-drained soil in the spring. During the seedling stage, the plant develops its root system and foliage, which consists of variegated green and white leaves. As the Hosta enters the vegetative stage, it establishes a larger root system and extensive leaf growth, preparing for later stages. In the maturity stage, typically reached in a few years, the plant produces tall flower scapes bearing lavender or white flowers in mid to late summer, which are attractive to bees and other pollinators. After flowering, seed pods mature, which can be dispersed to propagate new plants if conditions are favorable. In autumn, the foliage of the Hosta dies back with the onset of colder weather, and the plant enters a period of dormancy, conserving energy in its roots to sprout again the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: For Hostas, commonly known as Plantain Lilies, the most popular method of propagation is by division. The best time for this process is in the early spring or late summer when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate through division, you carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the crown into smaller sections, making sure each section has at least two to three shoots or "eyes" and a portion of the root system attached. Once divided, these sections can be replanted into a prepared garden bed or pots filled with a mix of good garden soil and organic matter. Properly divided and planted, these new sections will grow into individual plants that mirror the parent in form and coloration. The process is straightforward, considerably increases your plant stock, and can help rejuvenate older clumps that might have a bare center or are growing poorly.