Cornell Plantations' hosta collections are in their prime in the mid- to late-summertime.

"Exceptional plantings of these striking foliage plants can be found throughout our ground-cover collection, as well as on Comstock Knoll," said Plantations Director Don Rakow. "A good place to begin your stroll among these rugged, easy-care and long-lived perennials is beneath the shade of the magnificent large-leaf magnolia behind the headquarters building."

Hostas, with their multitude of distinct leaf shapes, textures and shades of green and blue --many edged with creamy variegations -- are considered a refreshing presence in the garden all summer long. Hadspen Blue, for example, is one of the smaller hostas, but its crisp cool color and crinkled texture make this variety a standout among hostas, which retain their beauty and freshness, even on the most sweltering summer afternoons.

In comparison, Hadspen's neighbor, the striking Sum and Substance, with its enormous lime-green leaves is one of the largest hostas. For flowers, few hostas can compete withHosta ventricosa whose long stalks of purple bells rise well above the glossy deep-green foliage, beautifully situated between plantings of silvery glade fern and European ginger. Others, such as Blue Angel, Fringe Benefit, Northern Halo, Blue Wedgewood, Fragrant Bouquet, Honeybells and Guacamole, make a midsummer visit to Cornell Plantations a delightful educational experience.

Cornell Plantations' grounds are open to the public, free of charge, from dawn to dark each day. For more information, call (607) 255-3020. Or visit the Cornell Plantations web site at http://www.plantations.cornell.edu to learn "What's Blooming at Plantations" and get the online guide to the Plantations Path as well as schedules of Plantations classes and special events.