Perhaps the best gardening trait of hostas is their three-season presence in the landscape. Hostas emerge in early spring. Their ground-covering and often colorful mounds of leaves remain prominent features until first frost. Cold autumn nights make their leaves turn to a beautiful yellow to signal dormancy and the end of another growing season. This three-season garden presence may last six to seven months in northern regions, while in southern latitudes it can last as long as nine months. Very few showy perennials have this durable quality for the entire gardening season. Also, flowering of some varieties can add a delicate welcoming scent.

SOURCE: American Hosta Society