Hostas for Colour, Texture & Contrasts
- John Plant
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
So often there is an issue when choosing which Hosta to go with another Hosta or plant based on its leaf colour, or even texture contrast. Will they go together? Will they look good? Can you get it wrong? What about the other plants that aren’t Hostas. Will they go?
At this point I need to highlight the dreadful situation of many companies offering massively unbelievable, pictures to induce you to buy something you can’t have. These are Ai produced photos and you should not be persuaded by these photos. Be careful, they are everywhere.
Hostas look great on their own mixed with other Hostas offering a difference in size, and colour of the foliage and shape of the foliage. You could just have a selection of different sized and coloured Hostas together or try mixing them with other plants.
Consider using other leaf textures, shapes and colours with different plants such as Ferns, Heucheras, and other plants that offer a contrast. Not just low growing plants but put yellow, blue and variegated Hostas, alongside smaller shrubs such as the variegated Dogwood or the yellow leaved Choisya and plain green of the Viburnum.
What about severe colour contrast by using the stunning yellow foliage of Caltalpa bignonioides Lutea, the yellow-leaved Indian Bean tree. Throw in a tree fern and red Acer for good measure. What a show!
How about something as simple as your Hostas being a foil for the wonderful lavender. The silver in the leaf of the Hosta and the Lavender complement each other.
Here the rounded leaf of Hosta Pauls Glory set against the strap-like foliage of Crocosmia. Just another idea!
One More Hosta Hudson Bay against a large fern (Dryopteris wallichiana), with these wonderful dark ribs. Planted together, growing together in harmony. One of my favourite ferns with one of my favourite Hostas.
There are hundreds of different plants to plant as a contrast to Hostas, but what about the Hosta themselves. Using the textures of the foliage to great effect, such as deeply ridges varieties that hold the water on a rainy day. Or the glossy varieties that reflect the light?
Maybe a deeply mottled varieties that have shadows within the leaf itself.
Take a long look at different colours and shapes of Hostas planted together, with variegated varieties with blue & yellow ones.
You colour contrast is you own choice. Whether subtly or seriously contrasted is pure taste and more importantly, your taste.
Make use of what you already have available. You will be surprised at what goes together well.
At Rewela Hostas, we are delighted to provide a diverse selection of Hostas suitable for collectors, experienced growers, and beginners alike. As a small family-run Hosta business we are more than happy to share our expert advice on everything related to Hostas. Shop now on our on-line shop for a wide range of Hostas, from new varieties to classics.
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John Plant
Rewela Hostas
Fantastic photos and some great ideas. Thank you, John.