The Color Encyclopedia of Hostas

This illustrated collection features 750 varieties of hostas: those""exotic, luxuriant-leafed perennials,"" as HRH The Prince of Wales describes in his preface, that have spread their way into gardens and greenhouses everywhere. Originally cultivated in Japan, the hardy plants form a protruding lily-like bloom among clumps of heart-shaped leaves in a rainbow of hues--from the""Blue Clown"" to the""Gold Regal"" to the slightly variegated sage and white""Abba Irresistible."" In entries organized by color, hosta specialist Grenfell reviews the special needs and features of each, also offering advice on designing beds and containers and combating pests and diseases. Appendices include hardiness zone maps for Europe and North America, suggestions for how to use and where to see hostas, and a glossary. Shadrack's sumptuous photographs form a bright centerpiece for this comprehensive guide.