The premier foliage plant for shade, forming bold clumps of ribbed leaves in blue, gold, green and variegated forms. Lily-like flowers appear in summer; protect new shoots from snails.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 60 cm H × 90 cm W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Plantain Lily
Botanically, Hosta hybrid is a moderate-growing perennial in the Asparagaceae family. It reaches around 60 cm tall and 90 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous, variegated and golden foliage. White and purple flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Plantain Lily
Plantain Lily suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Plantain Lily provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Plantain Lily is consistently moist soil. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Plantain Lily after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Plantain Lily in the garden
Plantain Lily earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, pots and courtyard containers and feeding bees and pollinators. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Plantain Lily with other plants that enjoy the same consistently moist soil and cool-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Plantain Lily
Plant Sale lists Plantain Lily as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.