Hosta 'Francis Williams'

Delicious photos courtesy of emagen on flickr.com, see their link on our Resources Page.
Hosta 'Frances Williams'
Left - Magnificent large ruffled leaves that can be 35cm long and 25cm across with a dark blue green centre and pale yellow green variegation around the edge - over about a third of the leaf surface. Seen here emerging from the sheaths that protect the young shoots. They stand on fairly robust stems in tight clumps which reach aobut 60cm high. Ivory coloured bell shaped flowers appear on spikes in May -June carried another 20 -30cm above the foliage - spectacular.
Right - later in the season when the leaves have matured and darkened in colour.

Hostas are hardy herbaceous plants that shoot from ground level in early spring. They are susceptable to slug attack while the leaves are young when slug pellets should be applied just below the soil all around the plant. Hostas thrive best in dappled shade and protection from strong dry winds. Being woodland plants they will grow under trees but for the optimum lush growth humus rich soil that is well watered and moisture retentive is best. Clumps can easily be divided in spring with a sharp spade.