Hosta ‘Pilgrim’ is a popular perennial valued for its attractive foliage. Its distinctive appearance enhances shaded garden spaces. Its ease of care and reliable growth make it a good choice for adding texture and color to landscapes.
Identifying Hosta Pilgrim
Hosta ‘Pilgrim’ has distinct characteristics. Its heart-shaped leaves feature a light gray-green or emerald green center with a wide, irregular margin that starts creamy yellow in spring and transitions to creamy white by early summer. Some leaves may display gray-blue streaks between the margin and the center. This small to moderate-growing hosta forms a dense mound about 7 to 12 inches tall with a spread of 20 to 24 inches.
The foliage is textured, sometimes slightly ridged. In midsummer, ‘Pilgrim’ produces dainty, bell-shaped lavender flowers on tall scapes, attracting hummingbirds. Its foliage dies back in winter and regrows in spring.
Planting Hosta Pilgrim
Planting Hosta ‘Pilgrim’ requires a suitable location. This hosta thrives in partial to full shade conditions, as direct, hot afternoon sun can scorch its leaves and hinder growth. Morning sun is tolerable and can intensify leaf colors, but consistent dappled or filtered light is ideal.
The plant prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5 to 7.5). Amending the soil with compost or well-rotted manure improves its structure and nutrient content. When planting, space ‘Pilgrim’ hostas approximately 20 inches apart to allow for mature spread. Set the plant’s crown about 1 inch below the soil surface, ensuring developing eyes are at or just below the soil line. Hosta ‘Pilgrim’ is hardy in USDA Zones 3 to 9.
Caring for Hosta Pilgrim
Hosta ‘Pilgrim’ needs consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. While the plant prefers evenly moist conditions, avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot. A deep watering once or twice a week is sufficient, but newly planted or divided hostas may require more frequent attention as they establish. Watering at soil level, rather than on foliage, helps prevent fungal issues.
Applying a layer of organic mulch around the plant, such as shredded bark or compost, helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Hostas are light to moderate feeders; apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges to promote vigorous development. Deadheading spent lavender flower stalks in midsummer redirects the plant’s energy towards stronger roots and foliage for the following season. In early spring, before active growth resumes, clean up any old, faded foliage.
Propagating Hosta Pilgrim
Hosta ‘Pilgrim’ is commonly propagated through division. The best times for division are early spring as new growth emerges, or late summer to early fall after blooming. To divide, carefully dig up the entire clump, ensuring minimal root system disturbance.
Once lifted, gently separate the clump into smaller sections, ensuring each division has at least three “eyes” or growth buds and a healthy portion of roots. These divisions can then be replanted immediately, ensuring adequate water for establishment. Allowing the parent plant to mature for several years before division ensures successful multiplication.
Dealing with Hosta Pilgrim Problems
Hosta ‘Pilgrim’ commonly faces issues with slugs and snails, its primary pests. These mollusks chew irregular holes in the leaves, particularly in damp conditions. To manage them, remove plant debris from around the hosta’s base, as this eliminates hiding spots. Barriers like crushed eggshells, grit, or copper wire deter them from reaching foliage.
Fungal leaf spots, such as anthracnose or Cercospora leaf spot, can appear, especially in humid conditions or when plants are too crowded. Symptoms include spots with discolored centers and dark or rust-colored borders, potentially leading to holes in the leaves. To prevent these, ensure good air circulation by proper spacing and avoid overhead watering, aiming water directly at the soil. Removing and destroying infected leaves can help limit the spread of fungal diseases.
Hosta Virus X (HVX) is a serious concern, causing mosaic discoloration, mottling, or twisted leaves. There is no cure for HVX; infected plants, along with surrounding soil, should be promptly removed and disposed of to prevent further spread.