Hosta Broadway

The Hosta 'Broadway' is a very beautiful tetraploid mutation of the hosta 'Border Street', which has thicker leaves than its parent and wider yellow to cream-flamed edges. In spring, the leaves emerge green with a wide, bright yellow margin, then the margin lightens to cream white as the season progresses, while the green becomes tinged with grey. The leaf blades are slightly glossy and undulate. In summer, the plant is adorned with lavender bell-shaped spikes that add to its charm. This variety truly stands out in the garden.

The Hosta or Funkia 'Broadway' is a deciduous perennial that is very hardy, with its above-ground growth emerging from the ground in spring. It belongs to the family Asparagaceae. The plant, which has a relatively slow but good lifespan, reaches a height of 40 cm (16in) with a spread of about 80 cm (32in). It develops cordate-based oval leaves that taper to a point. The leaf blade is marked by 6 pairs of deep veins. From the heart of its variegated foliage, tall flower stalks of about 70 cm (28in) emerge in July-August, bearing racemes of bell-shaped lavender flowers that are lightly scented.

Plant hostas with each other, marry them with ferns, solomon's seal and other lower ground cover perennials such as bugles rampants, wood geraniums, and lamiums. They are all very effective as slug repellents. The familiar silver Brunnera macrophylla 'Mr Morse' of the undergrowth will be excellent companions. Also consider Heucheras and their wonderful range of colors, or the delicate flowers of Elves Hats (Epimediums). This will enhance the shaded and slightly damp parts of the garden by creating a pleasant haven of freshness for the summer. Hostas also thrive in pots that should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly. Hostas pair wonderfully with spring bulbs, hiding their absence in summer under their generous foliage! Around a pond, plant them with persicarias, carex, and astilbes. The blue-toned foliage perfectly harmonises with the red and purple foliage of Japanese maples.

Important note: Most of the species commonly found in Western gardens have been introduced from Japan. Hostas, which are edible, are called "urui" in Japan where they are commonly consumed.