

How to identify Toad lily (Tricyrtis hirta)
Toad lily, also known as Japanese toad lily
Toad lily is distinguished by its unique floral arrangement featuring star-shaped blossoms with spotted petals that exhibit a range of colors from white to lilac with purplish speckles. Its prominent, sac-like nectaries, characteristic of the genus, are an identifying trait. The plant's foliage is lush green, and the stems and leaves are noted for a fine, hair-like texture. Typical mature plants can reach heights of approximately 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) and have a spread of 1-2 feet (30-60 cm), thriving in partially shaded areas with rich, moist soil conditions.
Star-shaped blossoms with spotted petals in white to lilac hues.
Sac-like nectaries at the base of outer tepals, distinctive floral trait.
Lush green foliage with fine, hair-like texture on stems and leaves.
Cylindrical seed capsule splitting to release disc-shaped, self-sowing seeds.
Upright stem with transparent hairs, arched growth habit, and smooth texture.
The leaves of toad lily are alternate, light green, and oval to oblong in shape, measuring 3-6 inches (7.6-15.2 cm) long. They are covered in fine hairs, giving a hairy texture, and clasp at the base in a distinctive ladder-like arrangement. The venation is parallel, enhancing the elongated appearance of the leaves. These characteristics collectively aid in differentiating toad lily from other similar species.
The flowers of toad lily are small, approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) long, and resemble lilies or orchids. They are star-shaped with six conspicuous tepals — three petals and three sepals. The base of the outer tepals features sac-like nectaries. The flowers, white to pale lilac adorned with heavy purple freckles, form a distinctive crown of stamens and styles that extends beyond the tepals. They bloom in late summer and fall, either solitarily or in small clusters (cymes) of 2-3 flowers, facing upward from the upper leaf axils.
The stem of toad lily is marked by fine, transparent hairs and stands upright, often arched. It is unbranched and showcases a smooth texture. The stem measures between 23 and 36 inches (58-91 cm) in height, with a slender, yet sturdy, form. This combination of fine hairs and a tall, arching growth habit are distinguishing features crucial for identifying the plant.
The fruit of toad lily is characterized by its unique, cylindrical seed capsule that is integral to its propagation. Upon maturation and drying, this capsule deftly splits to release 2 or 3 disc-shaped seeds, each measuring about 1/8 inch (3 mm) across. These papery seeds possess the ability to self-sow, thereby enabling toad lily to naturalize in congenial settings. The seeds enter a dormancy period, requiring a germination time frame of approximately 1 to 3 months before sprouting. Seasonally, they are ideally sown at the close of fall or on the cusp of spring's final frost.
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Scientific Classification of Toad lily