Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Hosta sieboldiana 'Great Expectations'
Great Expectations Hosta
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Height
- 18–24 inches
- Width
- 36–48 inches
- Flower color
- White to pale lavender
- Foliage color
- Creamy yellow to chartreuse centers with wide, irregular blue-green margins
- Bloom time
- Early to mid-summer
- Light
- Partial shade; morning sun or very open shade is ideal for optimal growth
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; features thick, puckered leaves that are slug-resistant
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 3–8
- Wildlife
- Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds
About this plant
Hosta sieboldiana 'Great Expectations' features large, heart-shaped leaves with bold, contrasting variegation. The deep blue-green margins highlight the soft, creamy yellow centers, which gradually transform into a chartreuse color. The thick, slightly corrugated leaves add texture to the plant, making it a standout choice for shaded areas.
In mid-summer, the plant produces tall, pale lavender flowers, adding further visual interest. Its vivid variegation and substantial foliage make it an excellent choice for borders or woodland gardens, where it provides both contrast and color throughout the season.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens
Companion plants
Lungworts · Wild ginger · Hellebores · Japanese forest grass · Astilbes · Heucheras
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Center for Urban Horticulture.
