Hosta 'Patriot'

Hosta 'Patriot': Bold Edges, Classic Elegance

A true standout in the shade, Hosta 'Patriot' is cherished for its dramatic contrast—deep green leaves sharply edged in clean, creamy white. Its broad, heart-shaped foliage forms a tidy mound that brightens shadowy corners with confident structure. Pale lavender flowers bloom in midsummer, rising gracefully above the lush, variegated foliage.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 45–55 cm
• Spread: 90–100 cm, forming a rounded, uniform mound
• Flower Colour: Pale lavender
• Flowering Period: Midsummer
• Foliage: Dark green with crisp white margins; broad, slightly wavy leaves with strong contrast
• Sunlight Requirements: Partial to full shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil

Uses and Benefits: Hosta 'Patriot' is ideal for massing in shaded borders, anchoring foundation plantings, or edging woodland paths. Its crisp variegation brings light to darker plantings, while the dense mound habit ensures reliable coverage and weed suppression. A low-maintenance favourite with season-long appeal and classic good looks.

Companion Plants: Combine Hosta 'Patriot' with Tiarella 'Sugar and Spice', whose frosted leaves and spring blooms soften the hosta’s bold lines. Add Polystichum 'Christmas Fern' for evergreen structure and textural contrast. Finish with Carex 'Ice Dance', a graceful sedge that mirrors the hosta’s variegation and brings continuity through the seasons.

Care Instructions: Grow in partial to full shade in moist, organically rich, well-drained soil. Water consistently during dry spells to maintain foliage quality. Cut back dead leaves in early spring, and divide clumps every 4–5 years to refresh growth and maintain shape.

History: Hosta 'Patriot' is a sport of 'Francee', introduced in the early 1990s and widely celebrated for its stronger contrast and thicker leaf substance. It was named Hosta of the Year in 1997 by the American Hosta Growers Association and remains a top pick for classic variegated foliage.

Final Thoughts: With bold contrast and lasting structure, Hosta 'Patriot' is a timeless favourite that adds brightness, balance, and beauty to any shaded landscape.