Toad Lily
tricyrtis formosana
Also known as: ["Toad Lily","Formosan Toad Lily"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial known for its unique spotted flowers that bloom in late summer to early autumn.
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 formosana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry indoor environments, rarely needed outdoors
- Drainage: Well-draining to slightly moist; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining, humus-rich soil; can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove up to one-third of old stems if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 3–4 hours of morning sunlight or bright indirect light; avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from shade; protect from direct sun to prevent leaf scorch; ideal for shaded garden beds or north-facing indoor locations.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is preferable; dappled light is ideal; avoid hot afternoon sun exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently during active growth or in dry conditions
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water more during flowering and fruiting periods; adjust based on weather and growth stage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; prefers cooler nights.
Keep away from drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall)
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch stem cuttings with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or leaf junction; remove any dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; avoid wetting foliage; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone to encourage deep roots; ensure water reaches the entire root ball; allow excess to drain to prevent root rot; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring to fall), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; topdress with organic matter annually.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf yellowing, or browning in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback if exposed to freezing temperatures; may enter dormancy in cold climates.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; move potted plants indoors in cold weather; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in excessive heat; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they ingest the roots or rhizomes of Tricyrtis formosana. The plant is not highly toxic to felines, but ingestion is not recommended.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Tricyrtis formosana roots and rhizomes may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to canines, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTricyrtis formosana contains toxic compounds, primarily in its roots and rhizomes, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic to humans, but caution is advised.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Tricyrtis formosana?
A: Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly and mulch to retain moisture.
Q: When does Tricyrtis formosana bloom?
A: It typically blooms from late summer to early autumn.
Q: Is Tricyrtis formosana toxic to pets?
A: There is no confirmed information on its toxicity to pets; it is advisable to keep it out of reach of animals.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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