Toad Lily
tricyrtis hirta
Also known as: ["Toad Lily","Hairy Toad Lily"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant known for its unique spotted flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Tricyrtis |
| Botanical Name: | Tricyrtis hirta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container with protection from intense afternoon sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive; avoid heavy clay soils.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining, organic soil with good moisture retention; a mix of loam, peat, and perlite works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Lightly prune after flowering; more extensive pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 3–4 hours of morning sunlight or bright indirect light is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to outdoor light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; place in dappled shade for best growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is best; avoid hot afternoon sun; provide shade during peak light hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently during active growth or in dry conditions
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights; avoid extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid placing in direct sun during summer; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall)
Fertilize lightly to avoid burning roots; apply after watering to prevent fertilizer shock; stop in late fall to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and moist.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing but not in peak flowering.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, peat-based mix, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; deadhead spent flowers; cut back leggy stems to a healthy bud or leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts is the best time to repot.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead or crowded roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial to refresh soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust for rainfall.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water consistently during active growth (spring to fall), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve structure and water retention; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or bud drop in excessive heat; yellowing or root rot in cold, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause root damage, especially in wet soil; may become dormant in winter.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; ensure good drainage; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; may go dormant if conditions are too hot and dry.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTricyrtis hirta is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTricyrtis hirta is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTricyrtis hirta is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Tricyrtis hirta?
A: Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly and mulch to retain moisture.
Q: When does Tricyrtis hirta bloom?
A: It blooms from late summer to early fall, typically August to October.
Q: Is Tricyrtis hirta deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant due to its unique foliage and late-blooming habit.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
