Hosta

Hostas are gaining popularity worldwide. They come in a myriad of leaf sizes, shapes and variegations in blue, green, gold, yellow, lime and white. The ideal conditions for growing in Australia are temperate to cool climates with protection from strong winds and direct overhead summer sun. They grow best in reasonable soil, preferably mulched and in complete shade, but leaf colour is enhanced with some morning sun or dappled light. They make fantastic pot plants under the shade of a pergola, particularly with several differing varieties. All Hostas die down to soil level with the first frosts in autumn and emerge again in early spring, which is quite a show in itself.