Hosta Plantain Lily Cool As A Cucumber

Botanical Name: Hosta ‘Cool as a Cucumber’
Other Names: Plantain Lily, Funkia
Hardiness Zone: 3–9
Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full shade

Plant Details

• Foliage Height: ~28 inches

• Flower Height: ~40 inches

• Spread: Up to ~48 inches

• Plant Spacing: 30–36+ inches (depending on space)

• Growth Rate: Medium

• Water Needs: Average, consistent moisture

• Soil Needs: Average to fertile, well-drained

• Bloom Time: Early to mid summer

• Flower Color: Lavender to white

• Foliage Color: Variegated white and green

• Habit: Large, arching mound

• Attracts: Hummingbirds

Description

Cool as a Cucumber Hosta forms a dramatic, arching mound of striking variegated foliage that really stands out in shaded areas of the garden. Long, tapered leaves display bright green margins with clean white centers, creating a crisp, fresh look reminiscent of a cool summer salad. In early to mid-summer, tall scapes rise above the foliage carrying light lavender to white blooms that attract hummingbirds and add vertical interest to borders and mixed plantings. With its large size, vigorous habit, and eye-catching color contrast, this hosta is ideal as a specimen plant, focal point, or in mass plantings where shade and texture are needed.

Landscape Uses

• Specimen or focal planting

• Border or edging plant

• Mass plantings in shade beds

• Woodland or cottage gardens

• Large container groupings

Planting & Care

Cool as a Cucumber prefers rich, well-drained soil kept evenly moist. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its foliage color remains vibrant without sun scorch. This hosta tolerates a range of soil types and handles urban conditions well, but avoid dry soil. Cleanup of old foliage in early spring before new growth appears helps maintain plant health. Regular watering and organic mulch enhance moisture retention.