Species Hosta 'Lancifolia': The Classic Lance-Leaved Plantain Lily

Hosta 'Lancifolia': The Historic Lance-Leaved Species

Hosta 'Lancifolia' (also known as H. lancifolia) is one of the oldest cultivated hostas, registered by Engler in 1889. It represents the lancifolia type: narrow, lance-shaped leaves, vigorous spreading habit, and late-blooming lavender flowers. A historic species that founded a lineage.

Lance-Leaved Form

The leaves are narrow, 6–8 inches long, 1–2 inches wide, lance-shaped, medium green, glossy, forming a dense, spreading mound 1–1.5 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide. It spreads by rhizomes, making an effective ground cover. In late summer, 2–3 foot scapes bear lavender flowers.

Historic Ground Cover

'Lancifolia' has been used for over a century as a shade ground cover. It's vigorous, adaptable, tolerant of difficult conditions (dry shade, competition), and hardy in USDA zones 3–9. The narrow leaves create a fine texture distinct from broad-leaved hostas.

Taxonomic Profile

• Family: Liliaceae
• Genus: Hosta
• Cultivar: 'Lancifolia' (syn. H. lancifolia)
• Hybridizer: Engler
• Registered: 1889

Timeless Utility

'Lancifolia' is the hosta for tough spots: dry shade, under trees, slopes. Its spreading habit covers ground. The fine texture contrasts with broad-leaved companions. A living piece of hosta history that still earns its keep.