Hosta 'Aphrodite': Double-Flowered Fragrant Plantaginea Selection

Hosta 'Aphrodite': The Double-Flowered Fragrant Goddess

Hosta 'Aphrodite', hybridized by Maekawa and introduced in 1940, is a remarkable selection of Hosta plantaginea with fully double, fragrant, pure white flowers—like gardenias in the shade garden. Named for the goddess of love, it embodies beauty and fragrance.

Double Gardenia-Like Flowers

The flowers are the glory of 'Aphrodite': large, 4–5 inches long, fully double (many layers of petals), pure white, and intensely fragrant—sweet, honeysuckle-like. They bloom in late summer (August–September) on 3-foot scapes. The foliage is typical H. plantaginea: bright green, glossy, less corrugated, forming a mound 2 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide.

Plantaginea Perfection

'Aphrodite' inherits the species' sun tolerance, heat tolerance, and late bloom. The double flowers are a rare mutation. It prefers rich, moist soil, morning sun to full sun (with moisture), and is hardy in USDA zones 3–9. A historic cultivar (1940) that remains unmatched for double fragrance.

Taxonomic Profile

• Family: Liliaceae
• Genus: Hosta
• Species: plantaginea
• Cultivar: 'Aphrodite'
• Hybridizer: Maekawa
• Introduced: 1940

Divine Fragrance and Form

'Aphrodite' brings gardenia-like double flowers to the shade garden. The fragrance perfumes late summer evenings. Plant near patios, windows, paths. A cultivar of historic significance and enduring beauty—the goddess of hostas.