Hosta 'Frances Williams' (Plantain lily)

3 bare roots
£9.89
£3.30 each
6 bare roots
£12.89
£2.15 each
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Many hostas, including this variegated classic, were introduced to European gardens in the 19th century and quickly became favourites for bringing colour and texture to shady planting schemes.

Hosta ‘Frances Williams’ is a much-loved perennial for shade, combining bold, puckered leaves with attractive variegation that brightens borders, woodland edges, and containers throughout the growing season.

The broad, heart-shaped foliage forms a generous clump and provides strong ground cover, while pale lilac summer flowers rise above the leaves on tall stems, adding a softer, seasonal highlight.

Plant in partial shade in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. A sheltered position helps prevent leaf scorch, and consistent moisture supports the best leaf colour and overall plant performance.

Water well in dry weather, mulch in spring to retain moisture, and remove old foliage once it dies back. Slug protection is helpful in spring, and clumps can be divided every few years to rejuvenate plants.

Perfect for shade borders and underplanting, this hosta also works beautifully in large pots and brings a calm, architectural feel to planting designs where flowers are secondary to foliage impact.

Botanical name Hosta 'Frances Williams'
Flower colour Pale lilac
Tuber size Grade I (Top Size)
Established height 50–100 cm
Established spread 50–100 cm
Plant spacing 1 per m²
Leaf colour Grey-green, variegated
Habit Clump-forming
Life cycle Perennial
Hardiness Fully hardy
Years to establish 1st year
Sunlight Partial shade
Position Sheltered
Suitable for Pots, Borders, Ground cover
Soil acidity Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture Moist but well-drained
Soil type Clay, Loam
RHS Award (AGM) No
Growing skill Easy to grow
Pollinator-friendly Yes
Deer resistant No

Where to Plant:

Plant in partial shade with fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. It’s ideal for woodland borders, shaded patios, and under shrubs, where the variegated foliage will lift darker planting areas.

How to Plant:

Plant bare roots in spring, setting the crown level with the soil surface. Spread the roots out, backfill, firm gently, and water thoroughly. Add a mulch to help keep soil moisture steady as growth begins.

Aftercare:

Water during dry spells, especially while plants establish. Protect new shoots from slugs and snails, tidy away old foliage in autumn, and divide clumps every few years to keep growth strong and even.

Planting and Flowering Calendar

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Key Features

Packed in paper

Packed peat-free

Great for Shade

RHS Award (AGM)

Perfect for pots

£9.89

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