Check Out These Top-Rated Hostas

Nurseryman Alan Tower carries more than 700 varieties of hosta, the most popular perennial in the country.

How do gardeners decide which ones to plant?

Tower, a director in the American Hosta Society, has compiled a list of top choices based on his tastes and the society’s annual ratings. Included is the cost of each plant.

Hosta Sum and Substance. This is the No. 1 rated hosta, according to the American Hosta Society. It has golden green leaves about a foot across and grows to maturity in a few years, reaching 6 feet in width and 3 feet in height. Cost: $15.

Hosta montana Aureomarginata. The leaves grow to 17 inches in length with margins that turn a vibrant yellow. Cost: $15.

Hosta Blue Angel. For gardeners who like blue-green leaves. This plant matures quickly and grows to an imposing 30 inches in height. Cost: $15.

Hosta Galaxy. Leaves are streaked with yellow, and veins create pronounced ridges. It’s one of the costliest varieties at $150.

Hosta Spilt Milk. Medium-size plant with variegated leaves that look like splashes of milk. Cost: $65.

Hosta Don Stevens. Dark green, lustrous leaves with yellowish margin. Cost: $40.

Hosta Sagae. Japanese variety that grows to about 42 inches tall at maturity. Leaves have yellow margins that fade to cream during the season. Cost: $25.

Hosta Cynthia. Large plant distinguished by mottled color on leaves. Cost: $20.

Hosta Krossa Regal. Landscapers use this specimen because it grows in a vase shape with a sage green color. Matures to large size. Cost: $7.

Hosta Halcyon. Medium-size blue plant with waxy coating that reflects light and creates soft sheen. Cost: $10.

Hosta Regal Splendor. Similar to Krossa Regal but with variegated leaves. Cost: $20.

Hosta Minuteman. Medium-size plant with wide variegation on edges. Leaves cup upward. Cost: $14.

Hosta Just So. Small hosta measures about 10 inches tall and 2 feet wide at maturity. Bright gold with dark green edges on leaves. Cost: $23.

, DataTimes