When talking about hostas, we have three texture categories; Coarse, Moderate and Fine. This is another "subjective" grouping since it is a judgment call as to what differentiates a larger-sized, moderate texture plant from being classified as a coarse textured one.

In discussing the texture of plants, there are two factors that come into play. Probably the more important one from a design standpoint is visual texture. Larger, broader leaves and/or those with a surface that is not flat i.e. corrugated, rippled, etc. would lean toward being classified as coarse textured. Smaller, narrower leaves with smooth, shiny surfaces will generally give a fine textured appearance. Foliage in between these two extremes would be considered moderate textured.

The other type of texture is called tactile texture which relates to how something feels to the touch. Surfaces that are smooth and soft to the touch would be fine textured while those that are rough and hard are coarse.

1. Coarse Texture - Generally, these plants are large to giant in size and have thick substance to their leaves. Heavy waves, ripples, piecrusting and corrugation in the leaves is frequently present. They may also bear large flowers and have massive clumps of blooms with large seed pods. The plants cast heavy shadows on nearby areas.

2. Medium Texture - Usually large to medium sized plants would fall into this group. They might have slightly thinner leaf substance and the leaf effect such as corrugation would be more moderate. Flowers would be of a more standard size and not in larger clumps on the scapes. Upright or vase-shaped forms may help an even larger plant appear to be of a medium texture.

3. Fine Texture - Most people associate hostas with coarse textures but there are plenty of the small and miniature types that fit into the fine texture type. These plants often have lanceolate or small leaves that have a smooth surface.