Unusual Hostas: Adding Character to Your Garden

The Beauty of Unusual Hostas

If you're looking for a plant that is both easy to care for and visually striking, hostas are a great choice. These shade-loving perennials are known for their large, lush leaves and delicate flowers, which bloom in the summer months.

While many people are familiar with the classic green and blue-green hosta varieties, there are actually dozens of unique and unusual types available on the market. From variegated leaves to brightly colored flowers, these plants offer a range of exciting options for any gardener.

15 Unique Hosta Varieties to Consider

Here are just a few of the many unusual hosta varieties you might want to consider for your garden:

1. 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd'

Named for its distinctive cup-shaped leaves, this hosta has a deep blue-green color and a unique texture that makes it stand out from other varieties.

2. 'Big Daddy'

This giant hosta has huge blue-green leaves that can grow up to 18 inches long and 14 inches wide. It's perfect for creating a dramatic focal point in your garden.

3. 'Empress Wu'

Another giant variety, 'Empress Wu' can grow up to four feet tall and six feet wide. Its broad, dark green leaves create a bold statement in any landscape.

4. 'Blue Angel'

With its large, heart-shaped leaves and blue-green color, 'Blue Angel' is a classic hosta variety. But it's still worth considering if you're looking for a low-maintenance plant with plenty of visual interest.

5. 'Sagae'

This award-winning hosta has striking variegated leaves with creamy white centers and green edges. It's also known for its large size and upright habit.

6. 'Sum and Substance'

As its name suggests, this hosta is all about size. Its bright yellow-green leaves can grow up to two feet long and one foot wide, making it a great choice for creating a lush focal point in your garden.

7. 'Stained Glass'

With its golden yellow leaves and dark green margins, 'Stained Glass' is a beautiful and unique hosta variety that adds a pop of color to any landscape.

8. 'Patriot'

This classic hosta variety has green leaves with white margins, creating a striking contrast that looks great in any garden.

9. 'June'

Another award-winning hosta, 'June' has blue-green leaves with chartreuse centers that turn gold in the summer months. Its delicate flowers are also worth mentioning, as they add a lovely touch of color to any landscape.

10. 'Guacamole'

With its bright green leaves and fragrant white flowers, 'Guacamole' is a popular choice for gardeners who want a hosta that is both visually striking and easy to care for.

11. 'Rainforest Sunrise'

This hosta has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that emerge in shades of yellow and green before maturing to a bright green color. Its unique texture and color make it a standout in any garden.

12. 'Halcyon'

This classic blue hosta is a popular choice for gardeners who want a plant that is both low-maintenance and visually striking.

13. 'Golden Tiara'

With its bright yellow-green leaves and delicate lavender flowers, 'Golden Tiara' is a great choice for adding a pop of color to any shady spot in your garden.

14. 'First Frost'

Named for its distinctive blue-green leaves with white margins, 'First Frost' is a beautiful and unique hosta variety that looks great in any landscape.

15. 'Honeybells'

With its golden yellow leaves and fragrant white flowers, 'Honeybells' is a great choice for gardeners who want a hosta that is both visually striking and easy to care for.

Caring for Your Unusual Hostas

While hostas are generally easy to care for, there are a few things you can do to ensure that your unusual varieties thrive in your garden:

1. Plant in the Right Spot

Most hostas prefer shade or partial shade, so make sure you choose a spot in your garden that gets plenty of indirect sunlight. You should also make sure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.

2. Water Regularly

Hostas need regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Make sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.

3. Fertilize Annually

To keep your hostas healthy and thriving, it's a good idea to fertilize them once a year in the spring. Choose a high-quality fertilizer that is specifically designed for hostas, and follow the instructions carefully.

4. Watch for Pests

While hostas are generally pest-resistant, they can be vulnerable to slugs and snails, which can damage their leaves. To prevent this, you can use a slug bait or set up a barrier around your plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are unusual hostas hard to care for?

Not at all! While some varieties may require a bit more attention than others, hostas are generally easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions.

2. Can unusual hostas tolerate full sun?

Most hostas prefer shade or partial shade, but there are a few varieties that can tolerate full sun. If you want to plant hostas in a sunny spot, look for varieties like 'June' or 'Halcyon'.

3. Do hostas need to be divided regularly?

Yes, it's a good idea to divide your hostas every few years to keep them healthy and prevent overcrowding. This is best in the fall, after the foliage has died back.

4. How can I prevent my hostas from being eaten by pests?

Slugs and snails are the most common pests that can damage hostas. You can prevent this by using a slug bait or setting up a barrier around your plants.

5. Can I grow unusual hostas in containers?

Yes, hostas can be grown in containers as long as they have enough room to spread out and the soil stays moist. Just make sure to choose a container with good drainage and use a high-quality potting mix.