Hosta fortunei Twilight

Hosta 'Twilight' is a remarkable variety with its very shiny foliage. It has an undulating and strongly veined leaf. This gives a satin sheen to the beautiful blue-green colour of the heart-shaped leaves. The edges are extensively margined with cream yellow. It is a medium-sized variety, with a spreading habit, with lavender flowers in July. Easy to grow and successful in damp soil, it will bring an exotic touch to the cool areas of the garden. Finally, a Hosta that slugs do not love!

This Hosta is a fully hardy perennial, forming a wide clump from spring onwards. It belongs to the asparagus family.  The plant will reach 40 cm (16in) in height and 55 cm (22in) in flower, with a spread of 60 cm (24in). It forms a broad clump, wider than it is tall. It is a plant with good longevity, with deciduous green heart-shaped foliage, with visible veins. The leaf is thick and undulating. The cream yellow borders will extend to cover the entire leaf at maturity. This thick foliage resists attacks from gastropods. The flowering takes place in July-August, in the form of pale lavender, pendulous bells that can reach 55 cm (22in) in height. This perennial spreads by stolons, similar to strawberries.

The hybrid Hosta 'Twilight' will associate well with ferns, epimediums and Claytonia sibirica, with which it forms beautiful colourful partnerships that require little maintenance. It will also work well in the company of columbines and tall foxgloves or small violets. All hostas grow well in pots and can remain in the same container for several years. A special geranium potting soil should be chosen and used during the growing season. As long as the foliage is not too dense, watering from the top of the pot is possible. Then place a saucer under the pot for water, keeping the level constant in summer.

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