The outstanding feature of these deep blue, broadly spear-shaped leaves is a very wide ivory margin, which becomes whiter in midseason, making the contrast even more striking. The mound of thick, slug-resistant foliage is decorated in July with pale lavender flowers. PP 19,623

This genus of shade lovers has 70 species, all of them from China and Japan, and hybridizers have produced hundreds of exciting crosses. Hostas have many handsome leaf colorations and lavender or white Lily-like flowers on graceful stalks. Plants prefer a moist location, but we've had a mass planting thrive for more than 30 years under a row of Sugar Maples. (In the South and West, evenly moist soil is required.) Because Hostas are grown primarily for their foliage, the figure next to "ht" is the height of the leaves, not the flowers. For more information on growing and care, click "Growing Guide."