How to Grow and Care for Toad lilies

Toad lily (Tricyrtis formosana) is a perennial that comes originally from China and the Ryukyu Islands of Japan. Its stalks will occasionally, but not always, branch out. Like most lily plants, it prefers partial shade and rich, moist soil, and is hardy enough to survive winter temperature swings.

With blooms that look like a cross between an orchid and a standard lily, the toad lily is a welcome garden addition because they bloom later in the summer, with their striking flowers lasting well into the fall. The name comes from a fake story about indigenous peoples that would rub the sticky sap on their hands before going to catch frogs; the scent would attract them and the stickiness would help the hunter catch them.

Tricyrtis macropoda is a perennial herb up to 80 cm tall. The lower part of the plant is glabrous while its upper part is finely pubescent. The leaves are alternate ovate-elliptical oblong up to 12 cm long. Its flowering lasts all summer.

Tricyrtis macropoda is a perennial herb up to 80 cm tall. The lower part of the plant is glabrous while its upper part is finely pubescent. The leaves are alternate ovate-elliptical oblong up to 12 cm long. Its flowering lasts all summer.

Hairy toad lily 'Blue Wonder' is a Toad lily with eye-catching white flowers that are covered with bright blue and purple spots explaining the name 'Blue Wonder'. In contrast, the parent plant's flowers have more purple spots and paler anthers. This plant is popular in ornamental gardens for its flowers and its easiness of growth.