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Description
Hosta Magic Island, also known as Magic Island Plantain Lily, is a small, clump-forming perennial that belongs to the Hosta family. It is a hybrid plant that was first introduced in 2004 and has since gained popularity among gardeners for its unique foliage and ease of care. The plant grows up to 10 inches tall and has a spread of 15 inches, making it perfect for use as a ground cover or in a container garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Hosta |
Appearance
The leaves of Hosta Magic Island are heart-shaped and have a glossy, dark green center with a wide, creamy yellow margin. The plant produces spikes of lavender flowers in mid-summer that rise above the foliage, adding color and interest to the garden. The leaves of the plant can grow up to 4 inches long and 3 inches wide, making it perfect for adding texture and contrast to a garden bed or container.
Care Guide
Hosta Magic Island is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:
- Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and again in mid-summer.
- Soil: Plant Hosta Magic Island in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil that has a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Plant the hosta in a location that receives partial shade to full shade, as direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Hosta Magic Island is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hosta Magic Island is relatively pest and disease-free, but there are a few issues to be aware of:
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can chew holes in the leaves of the plant. Use organic slug bait or handpick them off the plant.
- Fungal Diseases: Hosta Magic Island is susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and crown rot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Hosta Magic Island is native to Japan and is commonly found in woodland areas. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Hosta Magic Island?
A: Water your plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: Can Hosta Magic Island grow in full sun?
A: No, Hosta Magic Island prefers partial to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves of the plant.
Q: How big does Hosta Magic Island grow?
A: Hosta Magic Island can grow up to 10 inches tall and has a spread of 15 inches.
Q: Does Hosta Magic Island attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Hosta Magic Island produces spikes of lavender flowers in mid-summer that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Hosta ‘Blue Angel’
- Hosta ‘Elegans’
- Hosta ‘Frances Williams’
- Hosta ‘Sum and Substance’
References
- American Hosta Society. (n.d.). Hosta Magic Island. Retrieved from https://www.hostas.org/plants/h/magic-island
- BHG. (n.d.). Hosta Magic Island. Retrieved from https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/hosta-magic-island/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Hosta ‘Magic Island’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m290
