Whether you call them Plantain Lilies, Funkias, or—as most of us do—Hostas, these leafy beauties are the undisputed royalty of the shade garden. The name “Funkia” actually honors the German researcher Heinrich Christian Funck, while the scientific name “Hosta” comes from the Austrian botanist Nicolaus Thomas Host. Originally hailing from Japan and East Asia, there are about 22 distinct species out there.
A Mind-Boggling Variety
While 22 species might sound manageable, those species have branched out into over 4,000 different cultivars! Since we can’t list them all (we’d be here all year), it’s easiest to group them by their most famous feature: their foliage. Generally, you can break them down into three main categories:
- Green-leafed Hostas
- Blue-leafed Hostas
- Variegated (two-toned) Hostas
Green-Leafed Hostas: The Low-Maintenance Champs
If you’re new to gardening, green hostas are your best friend. They are incredibly hardy and much less picky about where you plant them compared to their colorful cousins. In fact, these are often the only varieties that can handle a bit of direct sun without getting scorched. If you’re looking for recommendations, “Sun Power” is a showstopper with its brilliant emerald leaves, and “Snowflake” is beloved for its crisp, bright white flowers. Check out our guide on the best hosta locations to see where they’ll thrive best.
Blue-Leafed Hostas: Cool and Sophisticated
There is something magical about the dusty, blue-gray hue of a blue hosta. They add a unique texture to the garden and look stunning when they send up their pale lilac blooms in the summer. Most of these varieties grow to a nice mid-size height of about 20 to 28 inches. If you want to add some “cool” to your flower beds, look for these popular favorites:
- ‘Amplissima’
- ‘Halcyon’ (a classic!)
- ‘Blue Cadet’
- ‘Elegans’
Variegated Hostas: The Eye-Catchers
If you want a plant that really pops, you can’t go wrong with two-toned hostas. These varieties are perfect as “specimen plants”—basically, they’re pretty enough to stand alone as a focal point. Here are some of the coolest color combos you’ll find at the nursery:
- ‘Wide Brim’: A lovely mix of creamy white and green.
- ‘Night before Christmas’: Bold white and green contrast.
- ‘Zagers White’: Green centers with a delicate, thin white edge.
- ‘Patriot’: A real standout with green centers and very wide, bright white borders.
- ‘Mediovariegata’: The opposite of the Patriot—green on the outside with a white center.
- ‘Golden Tiara’: A cheerful blend of yellow and green.
