Hosta nigrescens Krossa Cream Edge

Hosta nigrescens 'Krossa Cream Edge', also known as Funkia, is a small hybrid variety with narrow, veined leaves of medium green, marginated with white. It produces spikes of white to light lavender flowers in July and August. Easy to grow and thrive in moist soil, it will do well in large pots or containers, can make an excellent ground cover, and will add an exotic touch to pond edges.

The hybrid Hosta 'Krossa Cream Edge' is a deciduous perennial, forming wide clumps from spring onwards. It belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is one of the many hybrids obtained from species native to Japan (Hosta nigrescens) and China. The plant reaches a height of 30cm (12in) for the foliage and spreads up to 50cm (20in). This small hosta forms a broad clump, wider than it is tall. It is a long-lived plant with heart-shaped, narrow, medium-green deciduous leaves, with visible veins. The leaves are entirely marginated with white. The flowering occurs in July-August, with pale lavender to white, pendulous bell-shaped flowers clustered towards the top of the peduncles, which can reach a height of 50cm (20in). This perennial spreads through stolons, similar to strawberries.

The hybrid Hosta 'Krossa Cream Edge' pairs well with partial shade, helxine, ferns, and eucomis, creating an elegant and surprising effect with minimal maintenance. This hosta will also thrive alongside columbines, tall foxgloves, or small violets. All hostas grow well in pots and can remain in the same container for several years. Choose a special geranium potting soil to use 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 and pour water into it, maintaining a constant level in summer.

Most species commonly found in Western gardens were introduced from Japan to Europe by Philipp Franz von Siebold in the mid-19th century. Hostas are edible and are called "urui" in Japan, where they are commonly consumed in various forms.