Contents
Description
Hosta Mama Mia is a stunning perennial plant that is perfect for any garden or landscaping design. It is a hybrid variety that was first introduced in 2002 by the renowned horticulturist, Hans Hansen. This plant is a cross between Hosta ‘Sea Prize’ and Hosta ‘Tattoo’ and has quickly become a popular choice for gardeners due to its unique and attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Hosta |
Appearance
Hosta Mama Mia is a medium-sized plant that typically grows to be around 16-20 inches in height and 30-36 inches in width. It has large, heart-shaped leaves that are a bright green color with creamy white edges. The leaves have a slightly ruffled texture and a glossy finish, giving them a striking appearance. In the summer, Hosta Mama Mia produces tall spikes of pale lavender flowers that bloom for several weeks.
Care Guide
Hosta Mama Mia is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to keep your Hosta Mama Mia healthy and thriving:
- Water: Hosta Mama Mia prefers to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize Hosta Mama Mia in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Repeat every 6-8 weeks throughout the growing season.
- Soil: Hosta Mama Mia prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting.
- Sunlight: Hosta Mama Mia prefers partial to full shade, and should be protected from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
- Hardiness Zones: Hosta Mama Mia is hardy in USDA zones 3-9, and can tolerate temperatures down to -40°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hosta Mama Mia is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few issues that you should be aware of:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can cause significant damage to the leaves of Hosta Mama Mia. Use slug bait or set up beer traps to control their populations.
- Deer: Hosta Mama Mia is a favorite food of deer, so you may need to protect your plants with fencing or repellents.
- Fungal diseases: Hosta Mama Mia can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as crown rot and leaf spot. Avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Hosta Mama Mia is native to Asia and was first discovered in Japan. It thrives in shady, woodland environments and is often found growing under trees or alongside streams. In the garden, Hosta Mama Mia is a versatile plant that can be used as a border plant, ground cover, or specimen plant.
Question and Answer
- Q: How often should I fertilize my Hosta Mama Mia?
- A: Fertilize your Hosta Mama Mia in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Repeat every 6-8 weeks throughout the growing season.
- Q: Does Hosta Mama Mia prefer full sun or shade?
- A: Hosta Mama Mia prefers partial to full shade, and should be protected from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
- Q: What is the hardiness zone for Hosta Mama Mia?
- A: Hosta Mama Mia is hardy in USDA zones 3-9, and can tolerate temperatures down to -40°F.
- Q: What is the origin of Hosta Mama Mia?
- A: Hosta Mama Mia is native to Asia and was first discovered in Japan.
Related Plants
- Hosta ‘Empress Wu’
- Hosta ‘Blue Angel’
- Hosta ‘Sum and Substance’
- Hosta ‘Guacamole’
References
- ‘Hosta Mama Mia.’ Walters Gardens, Inc., Walters Gardens, Inc., 2021, www.waltersgardens.com/plants/perennial/hosta-mama-mia.
- ‘Hosta Mama Mia.’ Garden Design Magazine, 2021, www.gardendesign.com/plants/hosta-mama-mia/.
