Hosta tardiana Orange Star

'Hosta 'Orange Star' is a variety derived from June Fever which is much more colourful than its predecessor: its thick leaves have a fine dark green border and a wide yellow-orange centre that turns to golden yellow and then creamy white in summer. When the plant grows in shade, its foliage retains its orange colour for a long time. Topped with lavender flowers in summer, this variety forms a shimmering ensemble. An ideal perennial to bring whimsy to shady and cool areas of the garden, as well as the terrace. This hosta is resistant to slug attacks.

The 'Hosta 'Orange Star', or Funkia, is a deciduous perennial that is completely hardy, with a spreading habit from spring onwards. It belongs to the asparagaceae family. The plant will slowly reach 35 cm (14in) in height and 50 cm (20in) when flowering, it spreads up to 55 cm (22in). It forms a more wide than tall clump, but with a rather erect habit. It is a plant with a good lifespan, with medium-sized, thick, elongated heart-shaped leaves, ending in a pointed tip, with visible veins. The flowering occurs in July-August, for about 8 weeks. It takes the form of upright stems ending in long mauve bell-shaped flowers, which are not fragrant. The hosta is a stoloniferous plant that naturally spreads like strawberries. This perennial dislikes drought and heat.

'Hosta Orange Star, when used alone, becomes a focal point in any shaded border', at the corner of a path, or between stones in a damp rockery. It combines well with 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.