Hosta longipes var. longipes – Japanese Heart Leaf Lily, Hosta, Plantain Lily

Description

Hosta longipes var. longipes, also known as the “rock hosta,” is a small to medium-sized perennial native to Japan and Korea. It typically forms a rounded clump of glossy, dark green, leathery leaves with a heart-shaped base and wavy margins. The underside of the leaves can be either shiny or have a waxy, bluish coating. In late summer and early fall, it produces racemes of pale purple, funnel-shaped flowers on tall, purple-dotted scapes. The name “longipes” means “long feet,” which refers to its ability to send deep roots into rock crevices in its native habitat. This species is highly variable, with many different forms selected for variations in size, leaf color, shape, and flower characteristics. It is a popular shade garden plant, known for its low maintenance and tolerance for heavy shade.