Species hosta
Hosta 'Empress Wu' with broad, heart-shaped yellow, green leaf showing prominent vein pattern

hosta

Hosta 'Empress Wu'

Hosta 'Empress Wu' is an eye-catching perennial plant with vibrant purple foliage and white bell-shaped flowers. It grows in clumps up to three feet tall and wide and thrives in moist, shaded locations. It is known as the "king of hostas" for its large and impressive size. Its large, heart-shaped leaves are the deepest purple among hostas and work to create an elegant garden feature. In summer, white blooms appear atop sturdy scapes, adding even more interest. Hosta 'Empress Wu' is a versatile companion plant, taking well to both sun and shade. It's an ideal choice to add drama and texture to a perennial garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Pale lavender Flowers

Sun:

Part shade,full shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Hosta 'Empress Wu' is an easy to care for perennial plant that will thrive when given the proper attention. This variety of Hosta prefers partial to full shade, and moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant on a regular basis, providing 1-2 inches of water per week. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the foliage to yellow or rot. During periods of drought or during the summer months, be sure to water the plant more often. An even layer of mulch around the base of the plant will help to retain moisture in the soil and prevent weeds.

sunlight

Hosta 'Empress Wu'is best grown in partial shade or full shade and thrives in moist, well-drained soils. It prefers more shade rather than full sunlight and can tolerate up to 4 hours of direct morning sun. When in direct sunlight for too long, this plant may become burnt or scorched from the intense heat and light, so it is best to provide some shade for the plant during the hottest times of the day. Morning sun is ideal for providing this species with adequate sunlight while protecting against the intense heat of the afternoon sun.

pruning

For Hosta 'Empress Wu', it is best to prune the foliage in late summer or early fall after the flowering period has finished. Remove only the spent flowers and any dead or withered leaves. Trim back any overly long or floppy leaves and foliage to restore its natural shape. Be sure not to cut back too much at once, as this may cause stress to the plant. If needed, you can also remove entire leaves or stalks if they are extremely damaged or diseased, but keep in mind that this will reduce the density of the foliage.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Hosta 'Empress Wu' typically starts flowering in late June or early July.

Hardiness Map