Toad lilies (Tricyrtis spp.) are late season flowering perennials in the shade garden. Most summer perennials have finished blooming as their flower buds are just forming. They’re native to moist woodsy environs of eastern Asia and are botanical members of the lily (Liliaceae) family (USDA hardiness zones 5-9). When properly sited, toad lilies are long-lived and require little extra attention.

The plant name – “toad lily” – refers to the speckled flower colors. Flowers are borne in the axils of the leaves. Depending on species, plants grow 1.5 – 3 feet tall. Select star or bell-shaped spotted flowers in an array of colors. Many resemble orchid flowers.

Toad lilies prefer part to full shade, and moist humus-rich garden soil. Under ideal conditions plants need little or no fertilizing. Plants should be protected from wind particularly in hotter areas of the U.S. Otherwise, feed plants once or twice in summer with a water-soluble fertilizer such as Miracle-Gro™ or Jack’s™.  Mulching keeps the soil moist and suppresses weeds. Divide roots of toad lilies every 2-3 years in early spring; space plants 18-24 inches apart.

Four species of toad lilies, T. hirta, T. latifolia, T. macropoda, and T. formosana are very popular; they produce abundant purple-and-white blooms on 36 inch and taller stems. Many new hybrid forms are finding their way into garden centers. ‘Miyazaki’ hybrids are known for their superior flowering, vigorous growth, hardiness, and disease resistance. T. hirta ‘Miyazaki Gold’ has gold-edged green leaves and ‘Moonlight’ has entirely golden leaves. T. macropoda ‘Sinonome’ and ‘Tojen’ have dark green foliage and lavender and white flowers; ‘Lightning Strike’ displays green and gold leaves and speckled flowers on arching stems.

No serious insect or disease trouble toad lilies; slugs and snails are occasional pests. Anthracnose leaf spotting may pop up in wet summers. If so, clean up all leaf debris and discard in late winter. Deer may or not eat toad lilies? Rabbits may also be troublesome.

To repeat: Site selection is highly important. Toad lilies excel in moist well-drained soils and an early to mid-morning sun-dappled shady garden spot. Irrigate during dry spells. The beauty and detail of the small flowers need to be visually appreciated close up. Snip flower stems for a autumn table arrangement.