Hosta

Hostas are the workhorse perennial for shady prairie yards: grown for their bold foliage in green, blue-green, gold, chartreuse, and dozens of variegated patterns, with summer flower scapes in white or lavender as a secondary feature. Hardy across Alberta to Zone 2 or 3 depending on cultivar. Originally from East Asia (Japan, Korea, China), hostas have been bred for over a century into thousands of named cultivars ranging from miniatures (10 cm tall, 'Blue Mouse Ears', 'Pandora's Box') to true giants (1.2 m tall, 'Empress Wu', 'Sum and Substance'). The classic Edmonton site is the north or east side of a building under high tree shade. Hostas in full prairie sun bleach and scorch, especially the blue-leaved cultivars; site them where they get morning sun and afternoon shade at most. Slugs are the most common pest; copper barriers, beer traps, and overnight slug-bait granules all work. Deer love hostas, so if you garden in an acreage or neighbourhood with regular deer pressure, consider Alocasia, Brunnera, or ferns instead. Cat owners take note: hostas are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.