Glossy, rounded leaves in two shades of green flush out this handsome hosta, putting one in mind of a ripe avocado. Yellow-green centers add richness and dimension to the darker green base color. In summer, fragrant white flowers grow on tall scapes above the foliage.

Scientific Name: Hosta 'Avocado'

Common Name: Avocado Hosta

Garden Size: 16-24 inches tall by 28-49 inches wide; scape height 30-39 inches

Growth Rate: Fast

USDA Zone: 3-9

Exposure: Partial to full shade

Water & Soil: Moist, well-drained soil

Habit (Form): Mounding

Foliage: Medium-sized, glossy, rounded leaves with wide, dark green margins and yellow-green centers. The transition between colors has a streaked or feathered shape and is sometimes very subtle, more of a gradient than a hard edge.

Flowers: Fragrant, tube-shaped, pure white to pale lavender flowers that grow on scapes above the foliage. Blooms mid to late summer.

Plant Origin: East Asia, primarily Japan and Korea. Most commercially available hostas are hybrids.

Wildlife Support: Hummingbirds and some bees enjoy the flowers. A favorite treat for our local deer.

Fertilizing: Apply compost in early spring before new growth emerges.

Pruning: Remove spent flower stalks to encourage new growth; trim back damaged or yellowing leaves as needed. Leave the leaves over the winter and wait until early spring to clean up.

ASPCA Toxicity flags (see their site for details): Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Uses: Ideal for shade gardens, woodland borders, and container plantings.

AHS Classification: III-6a (Medium Leaved; Green or Blue Margined; Yellow, White, or Chartreuse Center)

Parentage: Sport of H. 'Guacamole'