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Key characteristics

Family: Asparagaceae
Height: 1.5 ft to 2 ft
Width: 3 ft to 4 ft
Flower color: Pale lavender funnel shaped flowers borne on tall upright scapes
Foliage color: Blue green leaves with crisp white margins and a thick slightly corrugated texture
Bloom time: Midsummer
Light: Partial shade to full shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; remove spent flower scapes and divide clumps as needed to maintain vigor
Growing zone: USDA zones 3 to 8
Wildlife: Hummingbirds and pollinators attracted to tubular flowers

Perennials

Hosta 'El Nino'

El Nino Hosta

Hosta 'El Nino' produces pale lavender, bell-shaped flowers in midsummer, held on slender scapes that rise above the foliage and bring a delicate accent to the plant. Broad, heart-shaped leaves are blue-green with crisp creamy white margins, creating a refined pattern enhanced by a lightly corrugated texture and pronounced veining. The foliage forms a dense, layered mound that remains attractive throughout the growing season, while the flowers add movement and seasonal interest above the leaves.

Light

Partial shade to full shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Midsummer

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Shade Gardens
Woodland Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Hummingbird Gardens

Companion plants

Epimediums · Bleeding hearts · Solomon's seal · Ferns · Lungworts · Wild ginger

Design tip

The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.