Hosta Lakeside Maverick

Hosta 'Lakeside Maverick' is a giant variety, a majestic shade plant that forms a huge clump of very large, deeply veined leaves which are dark green with a slight sheen, becoming more puckered in summer. Its summer flowers, with spikes adorned with white bells, adds to its charm. This superb plant deserves a prime location, in the garden or in a very large pot on the patio.

Hosta Lakeside Maverick is a horticultural hybrid of unknown origin, introduced in 2000 by Mary Chastain of Lakeside Acres in eastern Tennessee. It is a completely hardy perennial plant that belongs to the lily family or Hostaceae. This variety appears from spring onwards, and forms a giant clump. The plant, reaching maturity in 4 or 5 years, will reach a height of 90 cm (35in) with a spread of 2 m (7ft), if the conditions are right. It is a long-lived plant, with thick and heavy leaves that can measure up to 38 cm (15in) long. They are heart-shaped and have well-defined veins. Their colour is dark green with a satin-like appearance. The flowering takes place in July-August, in the form of elongated white bells, grouped towards the top of the peduncles that emerge slightly from the foliage. This perennial spreads by stolons, similar to strawberries.

The planting of Hosta 'Lakeside Maverick' should be carefully considered and wisely chosen, as the plant takes up space and attracts all eyes. For example, it can be placed in isolation, to highlight the curve of a shaded path, on the edge of a woodland, sheltered from the wind, where the soil is deep and fertile. This large hosta will associate well with ferns, meadow rues and Claytonia sibirica, with which it forms beautiful colourful duos that require little maintenance. It will also be valuable in the company of Actea with purple foliage, columbines and tall foxgloves. All hostas grow well in pots and can remain in the same container for several years. A very large pot should be chosen for 'Likeside Maverick'. 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 commonly found in our gardens have been introduced from Japan. Edible, hostas are called 'urui' in Japan where they are commonly consumed.