Hosta 'Minuteman' – 'Minuteman' Plantain Lily

The 'Minuteman' Plantain Lily is an essential variety for those seeking a powerful visual contrast in shaded gardens. A sport of the famous 'Francee', it is distinguished by deep forest green foliage, almost black, surrounded by a broad, pure white margin. More vigorous and featuring thicker leaves than its predecessors, it maintains its fresh appearance and crisp colours throughout the season, bringing immediate brightness to dark garden corners.

Characteristics

• Foliage: Heart-shaped, satiny leaves. The intense dark green centre contrasts radically with the brilliant white margin.
• Flowering / Fruit / Stems: Produces pale lavender bell-shaped flowers held on 60 cm scapes in early summer.
• Light: Prefers partial shade to full shade. Demonstrates good sun and heat tolerance.
• Habit: Forms a dense and compact mound.
• Growth: Reaches approximately 45-55 cm (18-22 inches) in height.
• Soil: Thrives in fertile, moist, and well-drained soil.
• Temperature: Exceptionally hardy (Zone 3).
• Resistances: Excellent slug resistance thanks to the thick substance of its foliage.

Use

• Types of use: Ideal for borders, woodland gardens, or as a structural plant in containers.
• Decorative advantages: Its pure white stays bright even late in the summer, creating a very tidy and luminous effect.

Maintenance

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture for optimal foliage performance.
• Fertilization: An application of compost or balanced fertilizer in the spring is recommended.
• Pruning: Clean up dead leaves in early spring before new growth appears.
• Planting: Space plants approximately 75 cm apart for full development.
• Winter Protection: Extremely cold-hardy; requires no specific winter protection.