Hosta 'Empress Wu' 2L

Hosta ‘Empress Wu’ is a striking, clump-forming herbaceous perennial prized for its exceptionally large, corrugated green leaves that create bold structure in shaded borders. In summer it sends up tall stems of pale lavender, tubular flowers above the foliage, adding a graceful vertical accent. Grow in partial to full shade in moist, humus-rich, fertile, well-drained soil; keep evenly moist in dry spells. Fully hardy in Ireland, the foliage dies back in autumn and re-emerges in spring. Excellent for woodland-style plantings, as a focal specimen in large borders, or in generously sized containers; pairs well with ferns and other shade-lovers. Protect young shoots from slugs and snails.

To help give a clear sense of scale, the stone wall shown in our photos measures approximately 265cm in height. We also use familiar garden tools as visual references: a digging fork (110cm tall) and a hand fork (30cm tall). These are included purely as size guides to help you better judge proportions when viewing the images.

Position: Partial to full shade

Rate of Growth: Average

Soil: Moist, humus-rich, moderately fertile, well-drained soil

Hardiness: Fully hardy

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Plant at a Glance