Contents
Description
Hosta Blue Ivory is a popular perennial plant that is native to Asia. It is a cultivar of the Hosta plant, which belongs to the family Asparagaceae. The plant is known for its striking blue-green leaves that have a creamy white margin. It produces funnel-shaped lavender flowers that bloom in the mid to late summer. The plant is a slow grower and can take several years to reach its mature size.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Hosta |
Appearance
The Hosta Blue Ivory plant has large, heart-shaped leaves that are blue-green with a creamy white margin. The leaves are thick and slightly corrugated, giving them a textured appearance. The plant can grow up to 18 inches tall and 36 inches wide. It produces funnel-shaped lavender flowers that bloom in mid to late summer on stalks that rise above the foliage. The flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
To care for Hosta Blue Ivory, it is important to provide it with regular watering and fertilization. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It should be planted in partial shade or full shade, as it does not tolerate direct sunlight well. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9 and should be protected from frost in colder climates. It should be divided every 3-5 years to prevent overcrowding.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hosta Blue Ivory is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including slugs, snails, and aphids. These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant. The plant is also prone to fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and crown rot. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant clean and dry, and to remove any damaged or diseased foliage.
Habitat
Hosta Blue Ivory is native to Asia and is commonly found in woodland areas and along streams and rivers. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. The plant is often used in landscaping and is popular for its striking foliage and easy care.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Hosta Blue Ivory?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought or high temperatures. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can Hosta Blue Ivory tolerate direct sunlight?
A: No, the plant prefers partial to full shade and does not tolerate direct sunlight well.
Q: When should I fertilize Hosta Blue Ivory?
A: The plant should be fertilized in the spring and again in midsummer with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: How often should I divide Hosta Blue Ivory?
A: The plant should be divided every 3-5 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain its health and vigor.
Related Plants
- Hosta ‘Blue Angel’
- Hosta ‘Blue Cadet’
- Hosta ‘Blue Mouse Ears’
- Hosta ‘June’
- Hosta ‘Patriot’
References
- “Hosta Blue Ivory.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=260849.
- “Hosta Blue Ivory.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/hosta-blue-ivory-pp-af-13552.
- “Hosta Blue Ivory.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/92631/i-Hosta-i-Blue-Ivory/Details.
