Hosta 'Whirlwind'

Hosta, Plantain Lily, Whirlwind Plantain Lily

Hosta 'Whirlwind' — a medium-sized variegated hosta prized for its creamy white centers surrounded by dark green margins, with leaves that often twist slightly and show irregular streaking early in the season. The broad foliage forms a dense mound, and the center typically brightens as summer progresses, creating bold contrast in shaded gardens. Lavender flowers rise above the foliage in midsummer, adding soft seasonal interest.

Type: Perennial

Mature Size:
Width: 30–36 in
Height: 16–20 in (to ~26 in in flower)

USDA Zones: 3a–8b

Form: Dense, upright mound

Light: Partial shade to full shade; best variegation in filtered shade

Soil: Moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter

Water: Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil

Wildlife: Attracts hummingbirds and bees

Features & Landscape Uses:
A striking white-centered hosta for woodland gardens, shade borders, edging, and mixed hosta collections. Its irregular center markings pair especially well with blue hostas, gold foliage plants, and ferns. Thick leaves provide moderate slug resistance.

Care:
Protect pale centers from strong afternoon sun to prevent scorch. Maintain consistent moisture and mulch annually to keep roots cool. Remove spent flower stalks after bloom and clean old foliage in early spring. Divide mature clumps every few years if needed. 🌿

Plant type

Perennial

Height

16-20"

Width

30-36"

Hardiness zones

3–8

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Mid Summer

Flower color

Lavender

Fall color

Chartreuse, Dark Green, Light Green, White

Attracts

Hummingbirds

Soil

Clay, Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Container, Mass Planting

Shape

Dense, Mounded, Upright

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No