Hosta Spartacus

Hosta Spartacus is a variety of considerable size derived from the Hosta Sea Gulf Stream. It is characterised by large heart-shaped leaves with a thick and pleated texture in a dark bluish-green colour with a very wavy and toothed yellow edge. Its vegetation, in the form of a dome, is adorned with lavender-coloured flowers in summer. This magnificent perennial will make an impression on the edge of the undergrowth, in a contemporary or Japanese-style bed, and of course in a very large pot on a shaded terrace.

This Hosta, or Funkia Spartacus is a completely hardy perennial from the lily family or hosta family. The plant shows, from spring onwards, a wide clump-like habit. Fully mature in 5 or 6 years, it will reach a height of 45-50cm (18-20in) and can spread up to 90cm (35in), if the growing conditions are met. It is a variety with good longevity, whose large and wide heart-shaped leaves have a very thick lamina, pleated by numerous deep veins, and slightly wavy and strongly undulate borders. Flowering usually takes place in July, in the form of elongated bell-shaped flowers of mauve colour, grouped towards the top of peduncles that emerge widely from the foliage, at 80cm (32in) from the ground. This perennial spreads by stolons, similar to strawberries. All the above-ground, deciduous vegetation disappears in winter.

Traditionally, hostas are planted under deciduous trees, in moist beds or in rockeries and borders, especially near water sources. It is a perennial that can be grown very well in pots and even in isolation. Hosta Spartacus pairs well with ferns, tiarellas, and astilbes for example, as these plants appreciate the same environments. Combine it with yellow to golden false grasses, especially Carex and Hakonechloa to highlight its extraordinary foliage. Also consider spring bulbs, Caucasian forget-me-nots, and creeping bugles to keep it company.