Hosta ‘Aphrodite’ is a perennial known for its captivating and unique flowers. This cultivar stands out due to its fragrant, double white blooms, offering a delightful sensory experience. Gardeners choose ‘Aphrodite’ to add elegance and a sweet aroma to shaded areas.
Distinctive Features of Hosta Aphrodite
Hosta ‘Aphrodite’ is prized for its flowers, which are pure white, trumpet-shaped, and uniquely double. They appear in late summer, from mid-August to September. These large blooms, measuring around 6 inches long and 4 inches wide, are highly fragrant.
The foliage provides a lush backdrop for its striking flowers. Leaves are glossy, medium to light green, with a smooth texture and prominent veining. These heart-shaped leaves can reach about 11 inches long and 8 inches wide, contributing to the plant’s dense, mounding growth habit. At maturity, ‘Aphrodite’ reaches a height of 18 to 24 inches with a spread of 24 to 48 inches.
Choosing the Right Site and Planting
Choosing the right planting site is important for Hosta ‘Aphrodite’. This hosta thrives in partial to full shade, as harsh afternoon sun can scorch its glossy green foliage. Morning sun can be beneficial, encouraging more robust blooming in late summer. Ensure the location offers shelter from strong, drying winds to prevent leaf damage.
Hosta ‘Aphrodite’ prefers consistently moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. An ideal soil pH range is between 6.5 and 7.5. Before planting, incorporate compost or other organic amendments to improve fertility and drainage. Dig a hole twice as wide as the plant’s root ball and deep enough so the crown is level with the soil surface. After placing the plant, backfill with amended soil, gently firming it around the roots, and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Consistent moisture is important for Hosta ‘Aphrodite’, especially during its active growing season. Established plants require about an inch of water per week, increasing to two or three times weekly during hot, dry periods. Water at the base of the plant in the morning to allow foliage to dry, reducing fungal issues and discouraging slugs. Avoid waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization supports vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Apply a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 5-5-5 formula, in early spring as new shoots emerge. This provides a steady nutrient supply without risking leaf burn. Avoid applying granular fertilizer directly onto the leaves or crown. Compost-amended soil can reduce the need for frequent fertilization.
Common pests include slugs and snails, which create irregular holes in leaves, and voles, which can damage roots. To deter slugs, remove debris, thin crowded plants to improve air circulation, and consider organic baits or beer traps. For voles, physical barriers or repellents can be employed. Hosta Virus X (HVX) is a viral disease indicated by discoloration or streaking; infected plants should be removed to prevent spread.
Preparing Hosta ‘Aphrodite’ for winter ensures its return in spring. After the first hard frost, foliage will yellow and collapse. Cut back spent leaves and flower stalks to about 3 inches above the ground, or remove them completely, to eliminate hiding places for pests. Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the plant’s base to insulate the crown and regulate soil temperature, especially in colder zones. Remove this mulch in early spring to prevent rot as new growth emerges.
Propagating Hosta Aphrodite
Propagating Hosta ‘Aphrodite’ is best achieved through division, which also rejuvenates older, overcrowded plants. The ideal times for division are in early spring as new “eyes” emerge but before leaves fully unfurl, or in the fall after foliage begins to die back. Early spring division allows the plant to establish roots before summer heat, while fall division provides time for roots to develop before winter dormancy.
To divide, carefully dig up the entire clump using a flat-bottomed shovel, working at least 3 to 5 inches away from the base to minimize root damage. Once lifted, gently shake off excess soil to expose the root system. Separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each division has several “eyes” (growth points) and a healthy portion of roots. This can be done by hand for smaller clumps, or with a sharp knife or spade for larger, denser ones. Replant divisions immediately at the same depth as the original plant, water thoroughly, and add mulch to help retain moisture.