Hosta are shipped anytime during the growing season.  Bareroot or G1 plants have at least two eyes.  If foliage is very large, it will be trimmed back for best shipping.  Small containers are deep, 2-1/2" or 4" pots with heavy roots.  Hostas often winter better in tight quarters, so unless a plant is big enough to divide it stays in small containers over winter.

Most all hosta are hardy to Zone 3, do great in average soil or in a container.  They look wonderful in woodland gardens, cottage gardens, and shade borders.  They can be a hedge or line a path.  Often they attract hummingbirds.  All do well in shade or part shade.  Some are more tolerant of sun than others, some melt out in sun, especially those with lighter centers and less substance.