I have read a couple of theories (or tales) on how Tricyrtis came to be known as the "toad lily". To me, neither sounded particularly convincing. I have found no more toads beneath this lily than any other plant in my garden. I did not have warts before purchasing the plant, so I cannot tell you if they cure the condition. Since I have not developed warts since purchasing Tricyrtis, perhaps it prevents their occurrence. I feel like a prince already, so there is no desire on my part to kiss the plant, testing the Aesop theory.
 Tricyrtis nana |
Confusion exists not only with the common name. Hortus Third says there are between ten and fifteen species of Tricyrtis. If Hortus is not sure, who is? Hortus also states they are not reliably hardy north of zone 7. Hortus is far removed from fact when dealing with the hardiness, for in most cases Tricyrtis are hardy well into zone 5. Hardy Herbaceous Perennials Vol. 2, by L. Jelitto and W. Schacht, does a good job of describing thirteen species, giving hardiness zones for each, and mentioning the existence of eighteen.
Specialty catalogs are probably the best source of information on culture and hardiness information. Normally they will carry between three and five species or hybrids, describing their local experiences with each plant.
In all fairness to botanists, the confusion is understandable. Tricyrtis are an East Asian group. They are relatives of our Bellworts (Uvularia), but very different in appearances. Uncle Harry and I are related, but look nothing whatsoever like each other, but behave somewhat similarly I am told. So I will accept that one.
 Tricyrtis latifolia |
Tricyrtis are native to the mountain region of the Himalayas, to Japan, Taiwan and Korea. Only recently are they gaining popularity here in the West. As they came here, a few species at a time, from each country or location within an area, names were given to propagated and hybridized plants with no one checking the validity before doing so. The confusion will probably continue for some time to come. There are two national collections in England, but a quick check with each did not yield much in the way of clarification. While they are sorting it all out, I continue to grow these fascinating and easy plants.
I have been growing Tricyrtis for around eight years and have quite a few species and hybrids in my garden. Each year a new area is found for another species, cultivar or hybrid. I have grown to appreciate them to the point where I can not imagine a shade garden without toad lilies.
 Tricyrtis x miazaka |
 |
The flowers are somewhere in between an orchid and passion flower in appearance. They are usually white or yellow in color with many spots and freckles in assorted colors. The overall size of the flower is somewhat small in relation to the plant, but blooms are abundant. Some forms are upright, some arching and a few needs a wall or log to lie upon.
Height is from four to six inches to four feet in height. Spread can be from about one foot to a very vigorous five feet in diameter. Foliage can range from a waxy, broad shinny leaf to a hairy, dark green with spots or warts. Most are late bloomers making them valuable for quiet color in August, September and October. I have one species that blooms in June.
Toad lilies are woodland plants, preferring open shade and slightly acidic soil with plenty of humus. When preparing a planting site I dig somewhat deep and add peat, but mostly leaf mold. Some well-composted manure is also added. The only trick to growing them is never to allow the roots to dry severely. When weather is hot and dry for an extended period, water deeply. Having mentioned their need for moisture, there are several species that will tolerate dry conditions. I have been experimenting with several beneath an old cedar tree.
When choosing a location in shade, place them close up. You will want them near a path where the flowers can be seen in detail. If it is a variety that arches heavily, consider the top of a wall, between large boulders, or a raised area. Some companion plants I prefer are hostas and ferns. Almost any Hosta with broad foliage makes good contrast to the leafy stems of the Tricyrtis. The stiff, upright and somewhat coarse bead fern is another good contrast. Begonia grandis, or hardy begonia, with all the red and pink in the stems and leaves makes a showy companion. Cimicifuga, or fairy candles, make good companions and there are several species ranging from two to six feet in height having various shades of white plume-like blooms.