'Patriot' offers crisp and satisfying contrast, plus the additional perk of good sun tolerance. Its glossy, heart-shaped leaves feature dark green centers and wide, creamy white margins. Clusters of lavender blooms top the foliage in early to mid summer.

Scientific Name: Hosta 'Patriot'

Common Name: Patriot Hosta, also known as Fortunei Patriot Hosta

Garden Size: 12-22 inches tall by 30-36 inches wide; scape height 30 inches

Growth Rate: Most hostas have a moderate to fast growth rate.

USDA Zone: 3-9

Exposure: Partial to full shade

Water & Soil: Moist, well-drained soil

Habit (Form): Mounding

Foliage: Heart-shaped leaves with dark green centers and wide, creamy yellow edges that turn white as they mature. The border between colors is irregular and streaked but very crisp. Leaves are slightly upturned, glossy, and sometimes moderately corrugated. This hosta has good sun tolerance.

Flowers: Lavender, tube-shaped flowers that grow on scapes above the foliage. Blooms early to mid 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-4b (Medium Leaved, White Margined, Green to Blue Center)

Parentage: Sport of H. ‘Francee’

Notes: AHGA Hosta of the Year 1997