One of the most highly-sought Hostas today, 'Harpoon' combines substantial foliage texture with attractive form and rich variegation. The result is a vigorous, pest-resistant plant that spreads nicely in the partly shaded garden, useful as edging, for mass planting, and in containers.

A cross of H. 'Swoosh' x H. yingeri, this 2000 Roy Herold introduction sets long, deeply corrugated leaves 11 inches long and 3 1/2 inches wide. The foliage emerges fresh green with a bright 1/2-inch gold border in spring. As the weather warms, the edging turns creamy yellow, but remains on the plant throughout the strongest summer heat. These leaves are elegantly rippled, tapering to a point and held up and out on very lush, dense plants just 14 inches high but up to 2 feet wide.

In midsummer, spidery dark purple blooms measuring 1 1/4 inches wide dangle from 32-inch stems high above the foliage, putting on a nice show in contrast with the pale lavender blooms most Hostas exhibit. But the focus is always on the foliage, which holds its texture as well as its variegation beautifully even in hot, humid weather.

The very thick, substantial texture of these glossy leaves discourages nibbling slugs and snails, keeping 'Harpoon' virtually pest-free. It is a good choice for the front of the border, offering a barrier to potential unwanted guests!

The winner of multiple awards, 'Harpoon' has quickly become a collector's favorite, and its pest resistance makes it an excellent choice for novice gardeners as well, or those who have not had success with Hostas previously. We urge you to reserve it for your garden today. Zones 3-9.