perennial

Toad Lily

Tricyrtis affinis 'Key Lime Pie'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

26 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia (parentage)

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Tricyrtis, commonly known as toad lily, are rhizomatous perennials native to Asia. They are prized for their unique, orchid-like flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. Typically found in woodland settings, they feature arching stems and lance-shaped leaves. 'Key Lime Pie' is a hybrid cultivar noted for its distinctive chartreuse-yellow, star-shaped flowers that are heavily speckled with dark purple spots. It forms an upright clump of glossy green leaves and provides excellent late-season color in shade gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking purple blooms and lush foliage, enhancing shaded garden areas.

Prefers shade and moist soil, reducing the need for frequent watering in dry conditions.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Plant in well-drained, humus-rich soil.
Provide partial shade for best bloom.
Water consistently during dry periods.
Mulch around base to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

Plant in dappled shade for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially in dry weather 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full, direct sunlight
Refrain from heavy fertilizing late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Pest Check
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMoist corner with lush foliageShade-loving perennial bed

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbe Heuchera Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Toad Lily questions

What zones can Toad Lily grow in?

Toad Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Toad Lily deer resistant?

Yes — Toad Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Toad Lily bloom?

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 Toad Lily need full sun?

Toad Lily does best in part shade.