Drinking Gourd - Hosta

Hosta 'Drinking Gourd' is a named hosta for foliage-led interest in shaded gardens. Its leafy perennial clump adds a calm, structural layer to a woodland edge, sheltered border, or container. ## Light and soil Hostas grow well in partial shade to shade, in fertile soil that holds moisture while draining freely. Protect leaves from hot afternoon sun and drying winds. Water regularly during establishment and through extended dry spells; the [N.C. State Extension Hosta profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/hosta/) covers the genus's growing conditions. ## Garden use Use as a low accent or repeat it along a shaded path, pairing the foliage with ferns, sedges, and spring bulbs. Keep the crown visible and leave enough space for the clump to spread. The [nursery listing for Hosta 'Drinking Gourd'](https://horsfordnursery.com/hosta-drinking-gourd/) identifies this named selection. ## Seasonal interest Hostas are herbaceous perennials: leaves emerge in spring and die back after frost. Many hostas also send up summer flower stalks above their foliage. For the plantain-lily common name and broader Hosta context, see [N.C. State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/hosta/common-name/plantain-lily/). Keep the root zone evenly moist without leaving it waterlogged. Apply a light organic mulch to conserve moisture, but do not bury the crown. Remove dead foliage after dormancy and divide crowded clumps in spring, watering well after replanting. ## Maintenance