hosta

noun hos·ta \ ˈhō-stə , ˈhä- \

Updated on: 21 Apr 2018

Definition of hosta

: any of a genus (Hosta) of Asian perennial herbaceous plants of the lily family with densely growing basal leaves and tall racemes of white or violet flowers — called also funkia, plantain lily

Recent Examples of hosta from the Web

Also plant summer-flowering bulbs: alliums, cannas, hostas and daylilies.

— idahostatesman, "A gardening to do list for March and April | Idaho Statesman," 21 Mar. 2018
Her gardens were filled with unusual hosta plants, holly, winter berries and other plants.

— courant.com, "Julia Kozikowski," 11 Feb. 2018
The couple's research led them to plant gingers, ferns, hosta and grasses and then add in garden sculpture, including a Zen-style fountain surrounded by Macho ferns.

— susan langenhennig, NOLA.com, "Slidell garden bathed in shade takes second place in NOLA.com garden contest," 1 Feb. 2018
In the woodland garden combine with hostas, ferns, and the repeat blooming Encore azaleas.

— norman winter, idahostatesman, "Soft Caress mahonia magically blooms, bringing in the honeybees | Idaho Statesman," 31 Jan. 2018
The multi-tiered backyard, which also includes a gazebo and three small ponds, comes alive with lilies, hostas and other plants in the spring.

— maureen c. gilmer, Indianapolis Star, "Hot Property: Midcentury modern marvel restored in spectacular style," 3 Nov. 2017
Like the fragrant hostas, these flowers open later in the day and perfume the air, attracting pollinators from across the city. Fantasize a little.

— sally mccabe, Philly.com, "Sept. 15-21: In the garden, it's time to…," 14 Sep. 2017
Some of Prinzing’s favorites include lady’s mantle, hosta, lamb’s ears, purple basil, scented geranium foliage, heuchera and ninebark.

— ciscoe morris, The Seattle Times, "Plant a cutting garden that can sustain regular picking — and possibly your relationship," 12 July 2017
Under large trees or in the deep shade of buildings, where few plants can get enough sunlight to flower, gardeners turn to foliage for drama, with perennials such as hosta, Siberian bugloss, wild ginger or goldenray (Ligularia).

— beth botts, chicagotribune.com, "Pair bold perennials with slender sorts for visual interest," 1 May 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'hosta.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Did You Know?

There are about 40 species of hostas or plantain lilies, which are hardy perennials in the lily family, native to eastern Asia. They prefer light shade, but will grow under a variety of conditions. They are valued for their conspicuous foliage, which may be light to dark green, yellow, blue, or variegated. The ribbed leaves grow in a cluster at the base, and stalks bearing clusters of tubular white or bluish-purple flowers emerge from the leaves.