Hosta ‘Snake Eyes’ is a captivating perennial known for its unique beauty in shaded garden spaces. This cultivar is a popular choice due to its distinctive foliage and ability to thrive in low-light conditions. Gardeners often select ‘Snake Eyes’ to enhance borders, containers, or woodland gardens, where its striking leaves can shine.
Identifying Hosta ‘Snake Eyes’
Hosta ‘Snake Eyes’ is recognized by its tri-color leaves, forming a dense, attractive mound. Each ovate leaf features a dark green margin surrounding a pale green to chartreuse center. A prominent, irregular white line separates the central chartreuse section from the darker green edges, creating a striking “snake eye” pattern. These leaves are typically slightly twisted at the tips and can reach a mature size of 12 to 24 inches tall and 24 to 48 inches wide. In midsummer, the plant produces loose clusters of lavender, bell-shaped flowers on upright stems.
Planting and Growing Hosta ‘Snake Eyes’
Hosta ‘Snake Eyes’ thrives in partial to full shade, benefiting from protection from cold, dry winds. While it tolerates various soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, it performs best in fertile, moist, and well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Before planting, soak bareroot plants in cold to lukewarm water for approximately 30 minutes.
When planting, dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots without bending them, ensuring the crown is about one inch below the soil surface. Firm the soil around the roots and water thoroughly. Hosta ‘Snake Eyes’ requires regular watering, but avoid overwatering. Fertilization is typically needed once per year; a slow-release fertilizer can be incorporated into the soil prior to transplanting.
Maintaining Health and Addressing Issues
Slugs and snails are common pests that cause significant damage, creating irregular holes in the foliage. Implementing baited traps in early spring and after rainfall can help control these mollusks. Other insect pests include black vine weevils, blister and leaf beetles, and aphids; deer and rabbits may also feed on hosta foliage.
Fungal diseases like anthracnose can manifest as pale brown spots with tattered appearances on leaves, especially in warm, wet conditions. Proper spacing helps prevent the spread of such diseases, and removing infected leaves can reduce fungal presence. Hosta Virus X causes coloration problems and wilting; infected plants should be promptly destroyed to prevent further spread. Ensuring good drainage and avoiding excessive moisture around the plant’s crown can help prevent issues like petiole rot.