Toad lily (Tricyrtis formosana)

Toad lily

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.

Scientific classification

Species

Toad lily (Tricyrtis formosana)

Lilies, supplejacks and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

30 cm

Spread

Green, Yellow

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

White, Purple, Pink, Red

Flower Color

Green, White, Purple

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Toad lily

Distribution of Toad lily

Distribution Map

Toad lily is native to East Asia and has since been cultivated in various temperate regions across the globe. Its natural habitat spans forested areas and shaded mountainsides. In cultivation, it is appreciated for its unique flowering characteristics and has been introduced to ornamental gardens, adapting well beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Shady rocky cliffs, steam banks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The unique, showy flowers of toad lily bloom through the autumn. When planted in shady beds beside other showy perennials in informal cottage gardens, it adds a pop of purple. You can also use this lily as a border plant by paths or beside garden ponds, since this plant thrives in the moist soil beside water features.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Toad lily, including the following common varieties :

Toad lily 'Dark Beauty'Toad lily 'Samurai'

Toxicity

All parts of toad lily are poisonous to humans, cats, and dogs. Ingestion and contact with its sap can cause gastrointestinal discomfort and allergic reactions in humans, and physical distress in pets. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if pets exhibit poisoning symptoms.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Toad lily

Glossy spear-shaped leaves, variegated or solid green, up to 6 inches (15 cm) long.

Small orchid-like flowers, 1 inch (2.5 cm) with white tepals, purple spots, and yellow center.

Distinctive cylinder-shaped capsule fruit with tiny, flat, papery seeds transitioning to brownish hue.

Shiny lanceolate to obovate leaves, variegated or non-variegated, with fine transparent hairs.

Slender stem, 24 to 40 inches (60 to 100 cm) with fine hairs, occasional purple tint.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Toad lily

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from Asia's moist, shaded environments, toad lily thrives in high humidity and prefers consistent moisture. Water weekly for optimal health; it's moderately drought-tolerant. Typically grown outdoors, toad lily benefits from natural rainfall during its active growing season to support lush flowering.

Fertilize: Toad lily thrives with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. High phosphorus fosters blooms. Over-fertilization is detrimental; halt feeding in dormancy. Adjust regimen seasonally, with active growth from spring to fall and rest in winter.

Pruning: Toad lily features delicate flowers and spotted leaves. Prune in early to late spring to remove dead stems, enhancing growth and air circulation. Cutting faded stalks promotes blooms, maintains aesthetics, and reduces disease risk, while also managing size and shape for better garden integration.

Propagation: Toad lily is a perennial ornamental plant notable for its unique blossoms. Propagation is achieved through division, requiring careful separation of clumps to ensure each has a growth bud. Replant promptly at the same soil depth to support root establishment and maintain vigor.

Repotting: For nurturing toad lily, a bushy, shade-loving perennial up to 3 feet, repot every 2-3 years in early spring using a slightly larger pot. Maintain moist soil without waterlogging and provide dappled light for optimal recovery, ensuring vibrant exotic blooms.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Toad lily

Distribution of Toad lily

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Toad lily

Care Guide for Toad lily

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases