Species

Tricyrtis macropodaToad Lily

1 other cultivar

‘Wando’Wando Toad Lily

perennial

Tricolor Toad Lily

Tricyrtis macropoda 'Tricolor'

The Story

Plant Bio

Tricyrtis macropoda, a species of toad lily, is an upright, clump-forming perennial featuring arching stems with lance-shaped, glossy green leaves. In late summer to fall, it produces unique, orchid-like, star-shaped flowers, typically pale with purplish spots.

The 'Tricolor' cultivar is prized for its attractive foliage. The lance-shaped leaves are variegated with creamy-white margins and green centers, often flushed with pink in the spring, providing multi-season interest.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds vibrant color and texture to shaded gardens, thriving in moist, woodland settings.

Prefers shady, moist environments, reducing the need for frequent watering in such conditions.

Provides nectar for pollinators and habitat for beneficial insects in shaded garden ecosystems.

SpeciesTricyrtis macropodaToad Lily

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist but well-drained

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China, Korea

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide mature plants every 3–4 years in early spring.
Prune faded stems after flowering to encourage new growth.
Provide partial shade for optimal growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains moist and provide shade during hottest months.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture
Divide every 3–4 years for vigorous growth
Prune after flowering to maintain shape

Don't

Avoid full sun exposure 🌞
Do not let soil dry out completely ❌
Overfertilize which may cause legginess
Ignore pests that can attack foliage

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Harvest
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Moist, shaded borderWoodland garden accentShade garden centerpiece

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbe LigulariaJapanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tricolor Toad Lily questions

What zones can Tricolor Toad Lily grow in?

Tricolor Toad Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tricolor Toad Lily deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Tricolor Toad Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Tricolor Toad Lily bloom?

Tricolor Toad Lily typically blooms in late summer to early fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tricolor Toad Lily need full sun?

Tricolor Toad Lily does best in part shade.