Hosta Red Dragon

Hosta 'Red Dragon' is a variety of medium size, which is particularly robust and reliable. It is not lacking in ornamental value as it develops beautiful green foliage, very veined, undulating and arched, which is lanceolate in shape and quite wide, carried by petioles speckled with red up to the lamina. Its late summer flowering is attractive, in spikes adorned with mauve star-shaped flowers. It tolerates both sun and shade and looks impressive in a raised pot where you can admire its beautiful red stems.

Hosta or Funkia 'Red Dragon' is a plant belonging to the Asparagaceae family. This variety was obtained by R. Livingston. It is a deciduous perennial that is very hardy. It forms a medium-sized spreading clump from spring onwards. The plant, reaching maturity in 5 years, reaches 45 cm (18in) in height and 75 cm (30in) in width. Its leaves are lanceolate, quite wide, veined, undulating, measuring up to 32 cm (13in) in height and 14 cm (6in) in width. They are a beautiful, medium to dark green. Its petioles are tinged with red up to the lamina. The flowering takes place in August and September, in the form of elongated lavender-coloured bells. This perennial spreads by stolons, similar to strawberries. It is a long-lived plant.

Hostas are sensitive to drought and scorching exposure. However, this variety tolerates morning sun or filtered sunlight through foliage. On the edge of the undergrowth, sheltered from the wind, where the soil is deep and fertile, this Hosta 'Red Dragon' goes well with ferns, meadow rues, and Claytonia sibirica, with which it forms beautiful colorful duos that require little maintenance. It will also look good in the company of acteas with purple foliage and columbines. If you plant it in a sunnier spot, in consistently moist soil, it appreciates the company of foxgloves and Iris pseudacorus near a water source. All hostas grow well in pots and can remain in the same container for several years.

Most of the species commonly found in our gardens have been introduced from Japan. Edible, hostas are called 'urui' in Japan where they are commonly consumed.