Although 'Great Expectations' takes time to reach its full size, its foliage is striking throughout its lifespan. Rounded, dark green leaves have feather-like pale green centers that brighten to ivory in sun. Pale stems bear snowy white flowers in summer.

Scientific Name: Hosta 'Great Expectations'

Common Name: Great Expectations Hosta

Garden Size: 20 inches tall by 40 inches wide; scape height 24 inches

Growth Rate: Slow

USDA Zone: 3-9

Exposure: Partial to full shade

Water & Soil: Moist, well-drained soil

Habit (Form): Mounding

Foliage: Broad, nearly round, heart-shaped leaves with wide blue-green edges and light centers, with a painterly, feathered transition between colors. The leaf centers change color throughout the season, emerging chartreuse and shifting through yellow to creamy white with sufficient light exposure. Mature leaves have a puckered texture and may be slightly cupped. Thick foliage is resistant to slugs.

Flowers: White, tube-shaped flowers that grow on scapes just 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: IV-6a (Small Leaved; Green or Blue Margined; Yellow, White, or Chartreuse Center)

Parentage: Sport of H. sieboldiana 'Elegans'