Hosta undulata albomarginata

Hosta undulata var. albomarginata, formerly known as Funkia, is a shade-loving perennial, appreciated for its variegated foliage of white, green, and cream, as well as its vigour and rapid growth.

Excellent plants for partial shade, hostas are cultivated for their highly decorative basal foliage. The lanceolate leaves of the Hosta undulata var albomarginata are green with ivory margins and deeply veined, measuring an average of 15cm (6in). The veins are parallel, which is characteristic of this family. This variety spreads up to 60cm (24in) in width, making it an excellent ground cover. From July to August, a series of long stems, towering above the leafy clump, bear a terminal cluster of slightly pendulous, lavender flowers measuring 2 to 3cm (1in). Despite their resemblance to lily flowers, they are completely odourless. Hostas thrive in rich loamy soils, even heavy clay soils, as long as they remain slightly moist. If they are happy, they will remain in place for years without requiring special care.

Pair the Albomarginata variety with the gold of the Geranium phaeum Margaret Wilson, wild garlic, the soft pink of the Digitalis mertonensis, or the purple fronds of the Athyrium niponicum Pictum fern. Lobelia speciosa Russian Princess and the familiar silver Brunnera macrophylla Mr Morse will be excellent companions. Also consider the Heucheras and their fantastic range of colours, or the delicate flowers of the fairy wings (Epimedium). With these combinations, you can enhance the shaded and slightly damp areas 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.

Did you know: the lighter the leaves of hostas, the less they dislike sunlight. Dark leaves, especially blue ones, are more sensitive to it, and the heat causes them to lose the waxy film responsible for their colour. A few hours of partial sun per day are sufficient for these plants, which prefer partial shade rather than full shade. In fact, without a minimum of sunlight, they will not flower. It would be a shame to miss out on these magnificent flowers, so the key is to find a harmonious compromise between light and darkness.