Hosta Fire and Ice

Hosta Fire and Ice

Common Name: Hosta

Easily grown in evenly moist, organically rich, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Best in part shade (some morning sun or sun dappled conditions). Established plants have some tolerance for dry shade (particularly plants with thick leaves), but soils should never be allowed to dry out. Full size and quality form are best achieved with consistent moisture. Water is best applied directly to the soil beneath the leaves. Divide plants as needed in spring or autumn. Division is usually easiest in early spring before the leaves unfurl. Plant in locations protected from wind. Hostas are generally considered to be low-maintenance perennials.

'Fire and Ice' is a reverse-variegated sport of Hosta ‘Patriot’ that was discovered in tissue culture by Hans Hansen of Shady Oaks Nursery and registered in 1999. It has twisted leaves with pure white centers and dark green margins. In mid-summer, it has lavender flowers on 20 in. stems. 'Fire and Ice' forms a rather compact, upright mound of leaves that grows 1 to 1.5 ft. tall and 1 to 2 ft. wide. Due to its high percentage of non-chlorophyll bearing leaf tissue, 'Fire and Ice' is slow growing. In warm climates and/or high sunlight, it has a tendency for the white portion of the leaf to develop brown areas and holes or "melt out".

Zone: 3 to 8

Height: 1.00 to 1.50 feet

Spread: 1.00 to 2.00 feet

Bloom Time: July to August

Bloom Description: Lavender

Sun: Full sun to part shade

Water: Medium

Maintenance: Low

Flower: Showy

Leaf: Colorful

Attracts: Hummingbirds

Tolerate: Heavy Shade, Black Walnut