One of the largest hostas, Hosta 'Sum and Substance' (Plantain Lily) is a perennial forming a spreading mound of thick, broadly heart-shaped, light green leaves, up to 20 in. long (50 cm), turning chartreuse to gold depending on sun exposure. Shiny above and thinly glaucous below, the lush foliage provides color and texture to the landscape. Dense racemes of bell-shaped, fragrant, pale lavender flowers appear in summer, rising on scapes 44 in. tall (110 cm). 'Sum and Substance' is supposedly the most slug resistant of all the hostas, due to its waxy leaves. It is also a very eye-catching hosta for specimen planting with its gigantic, tropical-looking, paddle-shaped leaves.

• Easy grower, Hosta 'Sum and Substance' grows 36 in. tall (90 cm) and spreads over time to 60 in. (150 cm).
• Recipient of multiple awards, including the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society and the American Hosta Growers 2004 Hosta of the Year award
• A part shade to full sun lover, it is best grown in rich, moist, well-drained soils. Best leaf color is obtained in sun in cool climate areas. In warmer areas, site it in morning sun and provide plenty of moisture.
• Perfect for the shade gardens, mixed with other perennials, as groundcover, underplanting shrubs.
• 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.