As discussed in the Design section, hostas are used in many ways in the home landscape. Some gardeners want a certain design impact and choose a hosta to fit specific aesthetic criteria. Others want to create a collection of all types of hostas based on other factors such as the originator, species background, size, etc. In some cases, we just want a beautiful hosta for a container on our patio.

For most hosta selections, the primary factors will be mature clump size, leaf color, type of variegation, variegation color and sometimes clump form. We have created many data retrieval pages to provide lists of various combinations of these traits to help you find hostas that fit your particular needs.

As you progress in your appreciation for hostas, you will begin to learn and appreciate the other aspects of this plant. We call these miscellaneous or "Other Traits" which would include such things as flower color, petiole color, red parts, seed production, growth rate, fragrance, etc.