Hosta fluctuans Sagae

Hosta fluctuans 'Sagae' is one of the best varieties with variegated foliage. Its large undulate leaves, which are in an elongated heart-shaped, are variegated with green and blue, and edged with cream-yellow, creating a stunning and highly graphic effect. The foliage comes alive in June-July with lavender-pink flower spikes. Of rather slow growth, 'Sagae' establishes itself slowly but permanently, while taking on a majestic habit. This magnificent plant will bring an exotic and refined touch to the garden, in moist soil, preferably in partial shade or in morning sun.

Hostas are deciduous perennial plants belonging to the lily family, or hostaceae. Hosta 'Sagae', formerly known as Hosta fluctuans Variegeta, stands out for its upright habit and beautifully variegated foliage. It is a long-lived plant. It will reach a height of 70 cm (28in) or more, and spread 50 to 60 cm (20 to 24in) when in flower. It forms a large clump, generally taller than wide. Its foliage is deciduous, heart-shaped with tapering tips, with visible veins and pointed ends. The lamina is thick and smooth. The pale yellow to cream borders surround variegated areas of green and blue. Note that the foliage colour and colour contrast are accentuated with slightly sunny exposure. This thick foliage is quite resistant to gastropod attacks. The flowering occurs in June-July, in the form of pale lavender bell-shaped flowers, which are pendulous, grouped towards the top of the peduncles that can reach a height of 70 cm (28in).

Originally from China, Korea, and Japan, Hostas are very hardy plants. They are most commonly found as ground cover under deciduous trees, in cool borders or rockeries, especially near ornamental ponds. The 'Sagae' Hosta combines well with rodgersias, helxine, ferns, epimediums, and Claytonia sibirica, with which it forms beautiful colourful duos that require little maintenance. It will also be valuable when used as a small groundcover, in the company of columbines and painted Japanese ferns, or even small violets. All hostas grow well in pots and can remain in the same container for several years. As long as the foliage is not too dense, watering from the top of the pot can be done. Then place a saucer under the pot to keeping the moisture level constant in summer. 

Most species widespread in our gardens have been introduced from Japan. Hostas are edible and are called urui in Japan, where they are commonly consumed.