Vigorous, Hosta 'First Mate' (Plantain Lily) is a small hosta variety with stunningly variegated foliage. It forms attractive, dense mounds of long, narrow, heavily rippled leaves with dark green margins and creamy-yellow centers. Star-like lavender flowers appear in mid to late summer, rising on scapes  24 in. long (60 cm) but the primary contribution of this hosta is its lovely foliage. 

• Easy grower, Hosta 'First Mate' enjoys a more upright habit, displaying its showy leaves as it creates mounds up to 10 in. tall (25 cm) and 24 in. wide (60 cm).
• A part shade to full shade lover, it is best grown in rich, moist, well-drained soils. Quite sun tolerant with adequate moisture, this plant is not fussy about soils and tolerates a wide range of conditions.
• Perfect for the shade gardens, mixed with other perennials, as groundcover, edging, underplanting shrubs or in containers.
• A hardy, low-maintenance and forgiving perennial which brightens up any shady gardens.
• Watch for slugs and snails which could damage the attractive foliage.
• Cut off the stems after blooming to encourage the plant's growth. Discolored leaves should be trimmed back to the ground.