Hosta 'Francis Williams' is a large leaf hosta known for its chartreuse centers and wide blue green margins. Its corrugated foliage and impressive size make it a standout specimen in garden beds and borders.
Height & Spread: 20 - 24 in x 36 - 48 in
Bloom Time: Early to midsummer
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Rich, moist, well drained soil with high organic content
Watering Needs: Moderate to high; prefers consistent moisture especially during hot weather
Deer Resistance: Low to moderate
Native Status
Not native to North America. This cultivar was developed from Asian hosta species and is widely grown in ornamental gardens for its striking foliage.
Wildlife & Insects
Bees
- Attracts honeybees and native bumblebees to its pale lavender bell shaped flowers.
Hummingbirds
- Ruby Throated Hummingbirds are occasionally seen sipping nectar from the midsummer blooms.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 36 - 48 in apart to accommodate mature size and showcase bold foliage form.
Landscape Placement
- Best used as a specimen in shaded beds, under trees, or as a dramatic anchor in hosta groupings and woodland borders.
Companion Plants
- Astilboides tabularis (Shield Leaf) - Large round leaves provide a dramatic texture pairing with the corrugated hosta foliage.
- Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' (Variegated Solomon’s Seal) - Arches elegantly among the bold hosta leaves while echoing variegation.
- Rodgersia aesculifolia (Rodgersia) - Adds height and coarse texture to complement the broad hosta leaves in moist shade.
- Ferns (such as Dryopteris or Matteuccia) - Provide delicate fronds and movement that contrast with the dense structure of 'Francis Williams'.
- Ligularia dentata 'Britt-Marie Crawford' (Ligularia) - Dark foliage and late summer blooms create a bold accent with strong color contrast.