Hosta Fragrant Dream

Hostas are herbaceous perennial plants with deciduous foliage that reproduce from rhizomes and stolons. They differ in size, texture, and colour. Originally from East Asia, they were first brought back from Japan and then from Korea. These Liliaceae are also found in northern China and eastern Siberia. They are also commonly called Plantain Lily because of their foliage.
Shade plants par excellence, they are cultivated for their highly decorative basal foliage. The Hosta Fragrant Dream leaves are dark green with a light green edge, lanceolate with deep veins, and measure an average of 18 cm (7in). The parallel venation is very specific to this family. This variety spreads up to 100 cm (39in) in width, making it an excellent groundcover. From June to July, a series of long flower stalks overhanging the leafy clump bear a terminal cluster of white flowers that are slightly pendulous and measure 5 to 8 cm (2 to 3in). An absolutely unusual feature for Hostas, the flowers of this variety are highly fragrant, reminiscent of the scent of orange blossoms. Hostas thrive in rich loamy soils, even heavy and clay soils as long as they remain slightly moist. If they are happy, they will stay in place for years without requiring special care.

Pair them with the gold of Geranium phaeum Margaret Wilson, wild garlic, the old rose of Digitalis mertonensis, or the purple fronds of the Athyrium niponicum Pictum fern. All are very effective as slug repellents. Lobelia speciosa Russian Princess and the familiar silver Brunnera macrophylla Mr Morse of the understory will be excellent companions. Also consider the Heucheras and their fantastic range of colours, or the delicate flowers of the fairy bells (Epimediums). This way, you will enhance the shaded and slightly moist parts of the garden, creating a pleasant haven for the summer. Hostas also thrive in containers, which should be placed in partial shade and watered regularly.
Important to know: the lighter the leaves of hostas, the less they fear sunlight. Dark leaves, especially blue ones, are more sensitive to it and heat causes them to lose the waxy film responsible for their colour. A few hours of sun each day, even partial, are more than enough for these shade plants. In fact, without the minimum sunlight, they will not bloom.  It would be a shame to miss out on magnificent flowers. The key is to find a harmonious compromise between light and darkness.