White Feather Hosta: A Stunning Addition to Your Garden

Do you want to add an eye-catching and unique plant to your garden? Look no further than the white feather hosta! This stunning variety of hosta is known for its striking leaves, which are white with green margins. It is a relatively new cultivar, but it has quickly become a favorite among gardeners due to its distinctive appearance and hardiness.

What is White Feather Hosta?

White feather hosta is a variety of hosta that is prized for its beautiful foliage. It is a hybrid between two other hosta varieties – 'Great Expectations' and 'Tokudama Flavocircinalis'. The resulting plant has large leaves that are a pale, creamy white color with dark green margins. It typically reaches a height of around 18-24 inches and a spread of 36-48 inches.

The History of White Feather Hosta

White feather hosta was first introduced by Bob Solberg of Green Hill Farm in North Carolina in 2004. Solberg had been working with hostas for many years and had a particular interest in creating unique and unusual varieties. He crossed 'Great Expectations' and 'Tokudama Flavocircinalis' to create what would eventually become the white feather hosta.

Growing White Feather Hosta

If you want to grow white feather hosta in your garden, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, this plant prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some morning sun, but too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Second, white feather hosta prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It also benefits from regular watering and fertilization.

Soil Requirements

White feather hosta prefers soil that is slightly acidic with a pH of around 6.0-6.5. It should be well-draining and rich in organic matter, such as compost or aged manure. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, you may want to amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.

Watering and Fertilization

White feather hosta requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. It is best to water deeply once or twice a week rather than giving it frequent shallow waterings. This will encourage the roots to grow deep and strong. In terms of fertilization, white feather hosta benefits from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring and again in midsummer.

White Feather Hosta Care

Once you have planted your white feather hosta, there are a few things you can do to ensure it stays healthy and vibrant. One important aspect of care is pest control. Hostas are susceptible to a number of pests, including slugs, snails, and deer. You can use organic or chemical controls to manage these pests, depending on your preference.

Pest Control

One natural way to control slugs and snails is to put down a layer of diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant. This will create a barrier that the pests cannot cross without being damaged. Another option is to use a slug bait or trap, which can be effective in reducing their population. For deer, you may need to use a physical barrier such as a fence or netting to prevent them from eating the leaves.

Dividing and Transplanting

Another important aspect of white feather hosta care is dividing and transplanting. Like other hostas, white feather hosta can become overcrowded over time, which can lead to decreased vigor and a less attractive appearance. To avoid this, you should divide your plant every 3-4 years, or whenever it begins to outgrow its space. This will also give you the opportunity to propagate new plants from the divisions.

White Feather Hosta Varieties

While white feather hosta is a unique and beautiful plant on its own, there are several other varieties that you may want to consider adding to your garden as well. One popular variety is 'Great Expectations', which is one of the parent plants of white feather hosta. It has large, variegated leaves with green centers and white margins. Another option is 'Tokudama Flavocircinalis', which has blue-green leaves with yellow margins.

'Great Expectations'

'Great Expectations' is a stunning hosta variety that has large, variegated leaves with green centers and creamy white margins. It typically reaches a height of around 24 inches and a spread of 48 inches. It prefers partial shade to full shade and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

'Tokudama Flavocircinalis'

'Tokudama Flavocircinalis' is another beautiful hosta variety that has blue-green leaves with yellow margins. It typically reaches a height of around 18 inches and a spread of 36 inches. It prefers partial shade to full shade and well-draining soil.


White feather hosta is a unique and beautiful plant that is sure to add interest to your garden. With its striking white leaves and green margins, it is a real showstopper. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can successfully grow and care for your white feather hosta and enjoy its beauty for years to come.

FAQs

1. Can I grow white feather hosta in full sun?

No, white feather hosta prefers partial shade to full shade. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.

2. How often should I water my white feather hosta?

White feather hosta requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. It is best to water deeply once or twice a week rather than giving it frequent shallow waterings.

3. How do I control pests on my white feather hosta?

Hostas are susceptible to a number of pests, including slugs, snails, and deer. You can use organic or chemical controls to manage these pests, depending on your preference.

4. When should I divide my white feather hosta?

You should divide your white feather hosta every 3-4 years or whenever it begins to outgrow its space.

5. What other hosta varieties should I consider planting with my white feather hosta?

Some other hosta varieties that would complement white feather hosta include 'Great Expectations' and 'Tokudama Flavocircinalis'.

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