Hosta 'Gypsy Rose'

Hosta 'Gypsy Rose': Pale Yellow Hearts in Deep Green

Wide, pale yellow centres framed in deep green, like a butter tart somebody baked with love. This hosta looks soft and sweet, and it's MADE OF STURDIER STUFF THAN PASTRY.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Hosta 'Gypsy Rose'
• Common Name: Plantain lily, hosta
• Height: 45–50 cm (18–20 in)
• Spread: 70–75 cm (27–29 in)
• Flowers: Lavender
• Bloom Time: Midsummer (July to August)
• Foliage: Oval leaves of good substance with a wide, pale yellow centre and deep green margins

Where to Plant: At a medium size, it fits the front or middle of a shady border without taking over. It works well in groups of three, along a path, or in a large container on a shaded patio.

Companion Plants: Dryopteris filix-mas grows up to 120 cm behind the hosta, and its tall, finely divided fronds frame the broad leaves well. Brunnera 'Sea Heart' keeps to 30 cm in front and flowers blue in April and May, long before the hosta. Tricyrtis hirta picks up in August and September with spotted white flowers at 60 to 90 cm, extending the season once the hosta's lavender flowers are done. All three are made for the same shady bed.

Plant Care: Plant it in rich, moist, well-drained soil with some compost. Morning sun is fine and keeps the centres bright. Protect it from hot afternoon sun. Water deeply during dry spells, especially while it settles in. Deer, rabbits and slugs all like hostas, so watch for damage. Cut the flower stems after bloom and clear the leaves after a hard frost. Divide in spring if the clump gets crowded or you want more plants.

History: 'Gypsy Rose' was registered in 2003 by Jim Anderson of Winterberry Farms in Georgia. It came from tissue culture as a sport of Hosta 'Striptease', which went on to be named Hosta of the Year in 2005.

Final Thoughts: Low maintenance and good with pollinators. Plant a few to light up the shade and save the actual tarts for yourself. NO SHARING.