Plantain lilies 'Great Expectations' (Hosta 'Great Expectations')

Plantain lilies 'Great Expectations'

Plantain lilies 'Great Expectations' make a dramatic impression in shady gardens with their large, blue-green leaves and creamy-white margins. These hostas attract hummingbirds and are known to have a long lifespan.

Scientific classification

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

55 cm

Plant Height

85 cm

Spread

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Care Guide for Plantain lilies 'Great Expectations'

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: For plantain lilies 'Great Expectations', regular watering is essential during the first summer, keeping soil moist to 15 cm (6 in). Prevent root rot by avoiding overwatering. Place flowerpots on walls to shield from rain and use pebbles for drainage. Water under leaves to deter pests.

Fertilize: Plantain lilies 'Great Expectations' thrives in nutrient-rich soil. Apply fully decomposed organic fertilizer in winter or spring, and nitrogen-phosphate before germination and blooming. During budding, increase phosphate-potassium. For potted plantain lilies 'Great Expectations', use monthly liquid fertilizer and consider a leaf spray of urea and monopotassium phosphate for enhanced growth.

Pruning: Plantain lilies 'Great Expectations' features lush, variegated foliage. Prune in early spring to remove dead leaves and enhance air circulation. Trim spent flowers post-bloom and rejuvenate older clumps every few years to promote healthy growth, improve aesthetics, and manage pests for thriving plants during the growing season.

Propagation: The main propagation methods for plantain lilies 'Great Expectations' are sowing and dividing. Seeds can be sown in spring or fall, but typically take 3-5 years to blossom and may not retain traits. Dividing, recommended in spring, allows for maintaining parent traits and can lead to blooming in the same year.

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