plantain lily ‘Devon Green’
The very first hosta I bought, many years ago, was the blue leafed ‘Halcyon’, so I was interested to discover that ‘Devon Green’ was a sport (a naturally occurring mutation) of this favourite of mine.
Like its parent, it is very resistant to slugs. It was introduced by Roger and Ann Bowden who owned a nursery called Bowden Hostas: its exact year of introduction is not known but it was certainly before 2002, so whoever it was at the Chelsea Flower Show who told TV viewers that ‘Devon Green’ was a new introduction, should check their facts. At Chelsea this year there was an amazing exhibit of hostas but I find them overwhelming when they are massed together and dare I say it, there might be just a few too many cultivars to choose from?
‘Devon Green’ is very special and quite rightly has been rewarded by the RHS with their Award of Garden Merit. It has glossy, deeply veined, mid-green leaves and the mauve flowers start to appear in early to mid-summer. There is something singularly cool and refreshing about a beautiful hosta in full leaf and it also provides a calming focal point among the restless melee of the summer border.
Most hostas are happiest growing in partial shade; they are slow to mature but after a few years they make a spectacular sight either in a bed or as a single specimen in a container.
NB Louise has published a beautifully produced book of her plant profiles – A Plant for Each Week of the Year. It costs £9.99 and is for sale in our online shop here.
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