Toad Lily Tricyrtis formosana Stolonifera Group
ABOUT
Tricyrtis formosana Stolonifera Group, commonly known as the toad lily, is a perennial plant notable for its striking and unique flowers. The flowers are intricate and orchid-like in appearance, with a complex pattern that often features a blend of colors such as white, purple, pink, and yellow. The petals are usually speckled or spotted with darker hues, which adds to the ornamental appeal of the plant. These blooms can give a starry or spotted effect, combining to make an eye-catching display in the garden. The foliage of the toad lily is also quite attractive. Leaves are lance-shaped and arranged in an alternating pattern along the stems. The edges of the leaves are typically smooth, and they may have a glossy or slightly shimmering surface. The leaves are generally a rich, deep green, which provides a perfect backdrop for the spectacular flowers, making them stand out even more. The toad lily is valued for its late-season flowers, blooming in a season when many other plants are winding down. The plant has a bushy habit, with multiple stems rising up and spreading to create a lush appearance in the landscape. It is commonly associated with woodland gardens and shaded areas, highlighting its preference for a cooler, moist environment, which also reflects in the appearance and health of the plant. The stems of the Tricyrtis formosana Stolonifera Group are sturdy and upright, supporting the large number of flowers that can bloom over an extended period. The plant exudes an exotic and almost tropical charm, despite being quite hardy in various climates, making it a valued specimen for gardeners looking to add a touch of visual interest and exotic flair to their garden spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Formosa Toad Lily, Creeping Toad Lily
Common names
Tricyrtis formosana.
ToxicityTo humans
Toad Lily is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning in humans following ingestion of this plant. Therefore, no specific symptoms of poisoning are commonly recognized. It is always advisable, however, to avoid ingesting parts of ornamental plants due to potential individual sensitivities or allergic reactions.
To pets
Toad Lily is not known to be toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. There are no reports of significant toxicity in pets that have ingested this plant. While it is generally considered non-toxic, it is always prudent to prevent pets from eating plants as a precautionary measure, as individual animals may have different sensitivities or could potentially experience gastrointestinal upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Taiwan
Benefits
General Benefits- Shade Tolerance: The Toad Lily is well-suited for shady areas where many other plants might not thrive, thus providing garden interest in spots with limited sunlight.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its unique, orchid-like flowers, it adds an exotic and tropical flair to gardens, especially during late summer and fall when many other plants have finished blooming.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, making it a convenient choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Attracts Pollinators: The Toad Lily's blossoms attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators to the garden, supporting biodiversity.
- Moisture Loving: It thrives in moist soils, making it an ideal plant for water gardens or damp areas of the yard.
- Woodland Garden Integration: It integrates well into woodland garden settings, complementing native plants and providing a naturalistic feel.
- Deer Resistance: Toad Lilies are generally resistant to deer, which can save gardeners the trouble of additional protective measures.
- Seasonal Interest: Offering bloom interest in the fall, it extends the garden's visual appeal into the later part of the gardening season.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, it will return year after year, providing long-term presence and reducing the need for seasonal replanting.
- Varied Uses: Suitable for use in borders, shade gardens, under trees, or as ground cover, giving gardeners a versatile tool for landscaping design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Container Gardening: Tricyrtis formosana, commonly known as toad lily, can be used in container gardens for its attractive foliage and unique blooms. It adapts well to the limited space and can thrive on patios or balconies.
- Mixed Borders: Toad lilies can be planted in mixed borders with other shade-loving plants, offering a splash of color and texture contrast when they bloom in late summer to fall.
- Cut Flowers: The exotic flowers of Tricyrtis formosana make excellent cut flowers for arrangements, adding an unusual and sophisticated flair to indoor decor.
- Artistic Inspiration: The intricate spotted patterns of toad lily flowers have inspired artists and designers for ornamental patterns in textiles and other decorative arts.
- Photography: Toad lilies, with their intricate detail and unique appearance, are a favorite subject for macro and garden photographers.
- Ground Cover: The Stolonifera Group of Tricyrtis formosana can be used as an effective ground cover in shaded areas, helping to prevent soil erosion and suppress weeds.
- Naturalizing woodland areas: Toad lilies can help create a naturalized woodland garden setting, providing a more informal look in landscaping designs.
- Rock Gardens: Tricyrtis formosana can be incorporated into rock gardens, particularly in shaded areas, where its vertical growth habit provides height and interest.
- Bonsai: With its attractive foliage and shade tolerance, toad lilies can be used for bonsai, offering a unique alternative to traditional bonsai plant choices.
- Educational Use: Toad lilies can be used in botanical studies and educational gardens to teach about plant biodiversity and adaptations to different environments.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiToad Lily is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityToad Lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mystery: Toad Lily, as it is commonly known, blooms with unique spotted flowers that inspire a sense of intrigue and mystery.
- Uniqueness: The distinctive appearance of the Toad Lily’s flowers, often compared to orchids, symbolizes the celebration of individuality and the beauty in being different.
- Overcoming Challenges: Toad Lilies thrive in shade where other plants may struggle, representing resilience and the ability to flourish in adversity.
- Beauty in the Unexpected: Since Toad Lily flowers bloom in late summer to fall, a time when many flowers are ending their show, they symbolize the idea that beauty can surprise us when we least expect it.
WaterToad lily, commonly known as Tricyrtis formosana Stolonifera Group, prefers evenly moist soil and should be watered thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This typically means watering every week, but the frequency may need to be increased during hot, dry weather, possibly to twice a week. When watering, apply enough water to soak the soil to a depth of several inches, which often equates to about 1-2 gallons, depending on the size of the plant and pot. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
LightToad lily thrives in light conditions of partial to full shade, making it an ideal plant for spots that receive dappled sunlight or are shaded for a part of the day. The best location for this plant would be under the canopy of larger trees or on the north side of a building where it can be protected from the harsh midday sun.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for a toad lily falls between 50°F and 75°F. While it can survive brief periods of colder weather, the plant is hardy to a minimum temperature of around 20°F. It prefers cooler conditions and should be protected from extreme heat, which could cause stress and possible damage to the plant.
PruningPruning toad lilies is primarily for removing spent flowers and any yellowing or dead foliage to maintain plant health and appearance. It's best to prune the plant right after flowering to encourage a tidy growth habit. Toad lilies may be pruned lightly throughout the growing season as needed to remove unattractive or damaged growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilToad Lily thrives best in a soil mix that is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and retains moisture. A blend of two parts peat or coir, one part perlite, and one part compost is ideal. The optimal pH range for Toad Lily is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.1 and 7.5.
RepottingToad Lilies should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current container. They prefer a crowded root system, so only repot when necessary.
Humidity & MistingToad Lily prefers high humidity levels, around 60-80%, to thrive. Ensuring good air circulation is important to prevent fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide shade, moderate water, and high humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, moist well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleTricyrtis formosana Stolonifera Group, commonly known as the Toad Lily or Formosa Toad Lily, initiates its life cycle when seeds germinate in spring, emerging as small shoots that develop into foliage. As a perennial plant, the toad lily enters a vegetative stage where it produces characteristic green, lance-shaped leaves along its stem. By late summer to early fall, the plant reaches the flowering stage, showcasing unique, orchid-like flowers with intricate purple spotting. After pollination, typically by insects attracted to the flowers, the toad lily produces seed capsules, which eventually dry and release seeds in late fall or early winter. In winter, the above-ground parts of the plant die back to the ground, while the root system goes dormant until the following spring. This cycle repeats annually, with the plant potentially spreading by stolons, thus giving rise to new individual plants nearby the original.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The Toad Lily (Tricyrtis formosana Stolonifera Group) can be propagated easily through division, which is the most popular method. The best time to divide Toad Lilies is in early spring as new growth appears. To propagate, carefully dig up the clump of the plant, ensuring as much of the root system as possible is intact. Gently separate the clump into smaller sections, each with several growing points or shoots. Replant the divisions promptly, spacing them about 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 centimeters) apart, and water thoroughly. This method maintains the genetic consistency of the plant and also helps rejuvenate older clumps that may have become too dense, resulting in improved flowering.
