Toad Lily Tricyrtis macrantha
ABOUT
Tricyrtis macrantha, commonly known as toad lily, is a perennial plant that is notable for its unique and attractive flowers. The toad lily generally has an upright form with alternate, lance-shaped green leaves that have a slightly fuzzy texture. Each leaf may have subtly undulating edges, which add to the plant's ornamental aspect. The flowers of the toad lily are particularly striking and a main draw for gardeners. They bloom in the late summer to fall, offering visual interest when many other plants are beginning to fade. These blossoms are complex and somewhat orchid-like in appearance. They typically have six petal-like segments that can range in color from white to pale pink, often spotted or streaked with deeper purples or blues, giving the flowers a speckled look. The center of each flower contains a cluster of prominent, yellow-tipped stamens, which contrast beautifully against the petals. The toad lily's overall appearance is one of delicate beauty, with its flowers often appearing to be intricately designed. Its unique blossoms attract pollinators and make it a desirable plant for shady garden spots, where it adds a touch of exotic charm.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae.
Synonyms
Yellow Toad Lily, Macrantha Toad Lily, Large-Flowered Toad Lily.
Common names
Tricyrtis macranthopsis
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as Toad Lily (Tricyrtis macrantha) is not widely recognized for its toxicity to humans. There is no significant evidence to suggest that the toad lily poses a severe risk if ingested or handled. Nonetheless, as with many plants, individual sensitivities can occur, and it is typically recommended to avoid ingesting parts of ornamental plants due to the potential for stomach upset or allergic reaction.
To pets
Toad Lily (Tricyrtis macrantha) is also not known for being toxic to pets. While it is always best to prevent pets from eating plants due to possible individual reactions or gastrointestinal upset, there is no specific toxicity associated with the toad lily for common household animals like dogs and cats. If an animal does ingest part of the plant and exhibits unusual symptoms, consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Tricyrtis macrantha, commonly known as Toad Lily, offers unique and intricate flower patterns that add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Shade Tolerance: Toad Lilies are well-suited for shaded areas where many other flowering plants may not thrive, making them ideal for woodland or shade gardens.
- Biodiversity Support: The flowers of Toad Lily attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are essential for the pollination of many plants and the health of ecosystems.
- Extended Blooming Season: Toad Lilies have a long flowering period, often blooming from late summer until the first frost, providing color and interest in the garden when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Toad Lilies require minimal care, making them an easy addition for gardeners who prefer low-maintenance plants.
- Deer Resistance: Toad Lilies are generally resistant to deer, which can be beneficial in areas where deer predation is a problem for gardeners.
- Versatility in Landscape Design: The distinctive appearance of Toad Lilies allows them to be used in a variety of garden designs, from natural woodland settings to more formal garden arrangements.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Tricyrtis macrantha, commonly known as Toad Lily, can be used in terrariums due to its small size and attractive flowers, adding a splash of color in a miniature indoor garden setting.
- The unique patterns and colors of Toad Lily flowers make them excellent subjects for botanical illustration, offering artists a chance to capture their intricate beauty.
- Toad Lily blossoms can be crystallized with sugar and used as edible decorations for cakes and pastries, giving a delightful and unusual flair to desserts.
- Gardeners may use the Toad Lily as a plant for moon gardens, as its light-reflecting flowers stand out in the evening and attract nocturnal pollinators.
- Due to its hardiness and adaptability, the Toad Lily can be used in natural landscaping to prevent soil erosion on slopes and shaded areas.
- The plant's intricate flowers can inspire textile patterns or prints in the fashion industry, with their unique spotted appearance giving an exotic touch to fabrics.
- As a classroom learning tool, the complex structure of Toad Lily flowers can be used to teach botany students about the diversity of plant reproductive organs and pollination mechanisms.
- The striking appearance of Toad Lily flowers can serve as a muse for jewelry designers, who might replicate their form in fine metal and gemstone creations.
- Toad Lily plants can be a part of a sensory garden for the visually impaired, as they possess a distinctive texture to their leaves and flowers that can be appreciated through touch.
- When included in a wildlife-friendly garden, the Toad Lily can provide a food source for native bees and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Toad Lily is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Toad Lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mystery: Tricyrtis macrantha, commonly known as Toad Lily, possesses a unique, speckled beauty that stands out in the shade garden, creating a sense of intrigue and wonder.
- Uniqueness: With its unusual, orchid-like flowers, the Toad Lily symbolizes the beauty in being different and embracing one's own uniqueness.
- Overcoming Challenges: Since Toad Lilies flourish in the shade, where most plants struggle, they represent resilience and the ability to thrive in less than ideal conditions.
- Elegance in the Shadows: The flower's delicate appearance in a shaded environment suggests finding beauty and poise in dark or unexpected places.
WaterToad lily plants, including Tricyrtis macrantha, prefer consistently moist soil, so it's crucial to water them regularly but without over-saturating the soil. Generally, watering them once a week with about one to two gallons, depending on the weather and soil drainage, is sufficient to keep the soil moist. During hotter periods or in particularly dry regions, the frequency may increase to twice a week. It's better to water deeply and less often than to sprinkle lightly and frequently, as this encourages a deep root system. Ensure watering is done at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
LightToad lilies, such as Tricyrtis macrantha, thrive in partial to full shade and should be planted in a spot that mimics their natural woodland habitat. They perform best with morning light and afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day. Full sun can be tolerated in cooler climates as long as the plants are kept moist, but in hotter regions, it's essential to protect them from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching the leaves.
TemperatureToad lilies, including Tricyrtis macrantha, prefer moderate temperatures and grow well in conditions that typically range from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit but will die back to the ground in the winter. Optimal growing occurs when temperatures remain within the moderate range throughout the growing season.
PruningToad lilies, including Tricyrtis macrantha, don't require heavy pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms. In late fall or early spring, cut back the dead foliage to the ground to keep the plant tidy and reduce disease risks. This also makes way for new growth. Pruning is generally best done after the blooming season or when the plant goes dormant in the colder months.
CleaningAs needed
SoilToad Lily (Tricyrtis macrantha) thrives in a soil mix that is well-draining but retains moisture, such as a combination of loam, peat moss, and perlite. The ideal soil pH for Toad Lily is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingToad Lilies should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they have outgrown their pots. This ensures they have enough space for root growth and access to fresh nutrients.
Humidity & MistingToad Lilies prefer high humidity levels, ideally remaining between 60-80%. Maintaining balanced humidity is crucial for their health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity for indoor Toad Lilies.
Outdoor
Plant in part-shade, moist soil, and ensure protection from harsh afternoon sun.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleTricyrtis macrantha, commonly known as the Toad Lily, begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically in the spring when soil temperatures are suitable for growth. After germination, the plant develops a rosette of leaves close to the ground. As it matures, it forms upright stems and a clump-forming habit, with foliage that becomes more abundant and intricate. Flowering occurs in late summer to fall, showcasing its star-shaped, speckled blooms that are a key feature of the Toad Lily. After pollination, usually by insects attracted to its unique flowers, the plant produces seed pods that ripen and eventually release seeds to propagate the next generation. In winter, Tricyrtis macrantha dies back to the ground and enters a period of dormancy, conserving energy to begin the cycle anew in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Tricyrtis macrantha, commonly known as the Spotted Toad Lily, can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes, which is the most popular method for this plant. This division should ideally take place in the spring when new growth becomes apparent or in the fall after the blooming period has ended. The process involves gently digging up the clump of the plant and carefully separating the rhizome into sections, ensuring each section has at least one growth point or bud. Once separated, the divisions should be immediately replanted at the same depth they were growing previously. Adequate spacing between the new plants, about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters), will allow enough room for growth. It's important to maintain consistent moisture after replanting until the new plants are well-established.
