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Key characteristics

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

Perennials

Hosta sieboldiana 'Great Expectations'

Great Expectations Hosta

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.

Light

Partial shade; morning sun or very open shade is ideal for optimal growth

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Early to mid-summer

Find this plant

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.