Plantain Lily and Hosta Sieboldiana

Hosta Sieboldiana, commonly known as Plantain Lily, is a flowering perennial that produces broad and flat green foliage, as well as an array of mauve, purple, pink, and white flowers in the summer months. Native to Japan and Korea, this species is prized for its lanceolate-shaped foliage, which can vary from blue-green to yellow-green, and its ease of care. As its Latin name suggests, this plant is part of the lily family and is related to a number of revered plants, such as the lily of the valley and the hosta.

Etymology of Hosta Sieboldiana

The genus name of Hosta Sieboldiana is derived from the Viennese botanist Nicholas Thomas Host who, in 1812, first described the plant. The specific name Sieboldiana is in honor of the German botanist Philipp Franz von Siebold, who collected the type specimen that was used to describe Hosta Sieboldiana in Japan in 1838.

How to Plant and Grow Hosta Sieboldiana

Hosta Sieboldiana is a hardy flower and an easy-to-care-for garden selection. Perfect for gardens and containers, Plantain Lily can be planted in locations that get full or partial sun. For optimal health, pick a spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Plantain Lilies can adapt to a variety of soils, ranging from alkaline to acidic, but it thrives best when planted in a soil rich in organic matter. Be sure to water Plantain Lilies regularly; soil should remain moist but not soggy. The best temperatures for Plantain Lily are between 65 and 75 ⁰F (18-24 ⁰C). Humidity levels should remain elevated but not too high. Fertilizers can be used regularly to promote thriving foliage.

Meaning and Symbolism

Hosta Sieboldiana is a symbol of courage, strength, and determination. It is associated with harmony and balance, and is often used as a symbol of summer. Due to its vibrant colors, this flower can represent joy and optimism. In Japan, the Plantain Lily is believed to bring fortune and happiness.

History, Mythology and Religious Significance

Plantain Lily has a long and varied history. In Japan, it is widely planted as an ornamental flower to be enjoyed in the garden. In Europe, it is often planted to commemorate those who have passed away. In the Christian faith, this flower is associated with the saints Luke and Aaron and is used to represent purity and innocence.

Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics

There are many varieties of Hosta Sieboldiana. Their defining characteristics vary according to their cultivar. The most common varieties of Hosta Sieboldiana include: ‘Elegans’, which features large and broadly ovate blue-green leaves; ‘Thomas Hogg’, which is a particularly vigorous cultivar with blue-grey foliage; ‘Sum and Substance’, which has exceptionally large round leaves; ‘Royal Standard’, which has broad orange-leaved foliage; and ‘Krossa Regal’, the most popular variety, which has thick and very dark green-leaved foliage.

How to Pot and Repot Plantain Lily

Hosta Sieboldiana needs to be planted in well aerated soil in order to grow optimally. When potting Plantain Lily, select a pot that is at least twice the diameter of the plant’s rootball. Make sure the pot has good drainage and fill the pot with soil that is appropriate to the variety’s needs. When repotting, carefully remove the existing rootball and place the new one into the pot and fill with soil. Water the new rootball generously and place in a sunny location. Some varieties of Plantain Lily can achieve a height of up to four feet and a span of up to six feet when repotted and healthy.

How to Prune

Hosta Sieboldiana is a low-maintenance plant and does not require an in-depth pruning routine. When pruning Plantain Lily, first remove any dead and diseased leaves, as well as any leaves that have faded in color. Once these leaves have been removed, trim the outermost parts of the foliage to maintain an even look. If desired, the remaining healthy leaves can be carefully cut back in order to promote new growth. Additionally, the flower stalks can be carefully snipped back after flowering, in order to promote better overall health and vigor.

How to Propagate

Propagating Hosta Sieboldiana is a simple process that can be completed in three different ways: by division, layering, or seed. The division method is the most popular; simply dig up the existing plant, remove the offsets and replant them in a different location. Layering the plant is another popular method, as it provides more control over the propagation process. Lastly, Plantain Lily seed can be harvested directly from the flower stalks, gently rub the seed from the flower head and store in a cool dry place until ready for planting.

Common Pests and Diseases

Hosta Sieboldiana is prone to several pests and diseases, such as slugs, aphids, and powdery mildew. Slugs can cause significant damage to the foliage of Plantain Lily and should be eliminated as soon as possible. Aphids feed on the foliage and can cause wilting; they can be removed with a blast of water or insecticidal soap. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause white spots on the foliage; the infected parts of the plant should be removed and treated with a fungicide.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hosta Sieboldiana

Q1: Is Hosta Sieboldiana an annual or perennial?
A1: Hosta Sieboldiana is a perennial flower.

Q2: Does Hosta Sieboldiana need full sun or partial shade?
A2: Hosta Sieboldiana prefers partial shade and requires morning sun and afternoon shade for optimal health.

Q3: Are Plantain Lilies cold hardy?
A3: Hosta Sieboldiana is cold hardy and can survive temperatures as low as -20 ⁰F (-29 ⁰C).

Fact Sheet

Plantain Lily	Hosta Sieboldiana
Family	Liliaceae
Plant Type	Perennial
Mature Size	Height: 1-4 feet; Width: 1-6 feet
Sun Exposure	Partial Sun – Morning sun, afternoon shade
Soil Type	Rich, well-draining
Soil pH	5.5 – 7.5
Bloom Time	Summer
Flower Color	Mauve, Purple, Pink, White
Hardiness Zones	3-9
Native Area	Japan and Korea