Hosta 'Patriot' (v)

Common name: Hosta

Description: Hosta 'Patriot' is a bold, award-winning hosta producing large, striking leaves of deep, matt green with broad, irregular white margins that create a striking two-tone effect throughout summer. It is one of the most vigorous of the white-margined hostas, forming a substantial clump of impressive foliage that makes an excellent focal point in shaded borders and containers. Tall scapes of pale lavender-purple tubular flowers appear in midsummer, adding further seasonal interest.

Other benefits: dramatic large variegated foliage, excellent for shade, long season of interest from spring to autumn, good in containers, slug management recommended for best results

Wildlife attraction: Bees and bumblebees are attracted to the tubular summer flowers.

Height & spread (approx.) at maturity: 50–60cm x 75–90cm

Position: Partial shade to dappled shade; protect from direct afternoon sun which can scorch the leaf margins.

Soil pH: Neutral; humus-rich, moist, well-drained fertile soil.

Moisture: Keep consistently moist; water generously in dry spells. Mulch annually with garden compost.

Winter hardiness: Hardy to -20°C (H6); fully frost-hardy throughout the UK. Protect emerging shoots from slugs in spring.