Introduction Hostas are plants grown for their wonderful foliage of infinite variation. Depending on the species or cultivar, the hosta can have blue, green, yellow or variegated leaves in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and textures. The plants may be grown separately or mixed with other plants that like the same conditions. Hostas appear in early spring and disappear in late fall, and are hardy to zone 3. The hosta also has the grace to produce a very acceptable flower in colors ranging from white to pale lavenders and blue-purples. To my mind the hosta is, without a doubt, a perfect perennial. Anyone who wishes to grow it can; no matter how small the garden there is always a place (partly shaded and damp) for at least one or two plants. They also look wonderful grown in containers (and there is always room for one or two of these).

My knowledge comes from years of growing these lovely plants. In this book I would like to share my experience of how, why and where to grow hostas and discuss which hostas, out of the infinite choices available, I have found to be best for the garden. For ease of use, I have listed all the species and varieties mentioned in the book in chapter 9, including details of leaf color and plant size. There has been a great upsurge in the use of hostas in gardens in the last few years, no doubt because they are not only beautiful, and beautifully diverse, but because they are very easy to grow. For the modern gardener who does not have a great deal of time, or perhaps does not wish to spend it in the garden, the hosta is an answer to a prayer. As we shall see in chapters 2 and 3, their cultivation is easy -- and the rewards are great. While understanding the constraints of budget, it seems a great pity to perhaps own half a dozen of the more common varieties and just keep splitting them up and spreading them around the garden. I feel continuity can be taken too far, and that gardeners are limiting themselves by ignoring the beautiful and different hostas that are available.

I hope this book will provide you with information on not only what is available but the many ways in which these lovely plants can be used and enjoyed.