Hostas, sometimes known as Funkia, originally came from Japan, Korea, and China. As a species there are about 100 natural varieties. As of 1995 there were still new wild/natural species being identified in the orient. From these 100 or so plants man has created well over 5,000 varieties. All species and varieties are registered and catalogued at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

These simple looking but diverse plants have genetic codes that are far more complex than humans! (humans having 46 chromosomes and hosta with 60, 90 or 120 chromosomes). These plants can handle almost anything that nature gives it, with the exception of desert conditions, droughts, floods severe infestations of pests (i.e. slugs), or virus' (when it is better to give up on the plant).

These plants like 1/2 sun to mostly shaded areas to grow. In the wild (in Asia) these plants have been found in seemingly no soil and a abundant supply of water. Some grow slowly while others grow rapidly. To date only one variety reliably provides multiple blooms in one year. Flowers range from dark violet to white. Asians use the plant as an outside, potted accent by doorways and patios, and as a vegetable at meals. In the Europe and North America these plants are viewed as a landscaping solution where plants are wanted but little light reaches and ample water is found. Over the coming months I hope to provide photographs of these plants.

The following have been identified correctly and can be found in my collection

1. Alba Minor
2. August Moon
3. Big Daddy (1998 addition)
4. BlueJay (1999 addition)
5. Blue Cadet
6. Brim Cup
7. Fresh (1999 Addition)
8. Ginko Craig
9. Gold Standard
10. Kifukurin Ko Mame (1999 addition)
11. Lemon Lime
12. Regal Splendor
13. Silver Lance
14. Lancifolia
15. Golden Tiara
16. Sieboldiana Elegans
17. Sum and Substance (1999 addition)
18. Undulata
19. Valentine Lace (1999 addition)
20. Venusta
21. Ventricosa
22. Ventricosa var. marginata
23. Vanilla Cream (1999 addition)

The following hosta failed to survive the summer because of the heat (1999) and I will be looking for signs of its survival next spring. Obviously if it does not survive I will acquire a replacement for it.

1. Masquerade (1999 addition)
2. Francis Williams (1999 addition)

 The following are hostas that are in my collection but identification has been questioned

1. Frosted Jade
2. Prince Edward
3. Ventricosa var. marginata Donated: Martha Woofter (1999 Addition) This is in no offense to Martha who is a really GREAT person!)

And then I have another 6 hostas that can not be identified and will probably be removed from my collection with identifiable ones!.

HOSTA MADNESS: PART 2

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