Species
Tricyrtis latifoliaToad LilyThe Story
Plant Bio
Tricyrtis latifolia, commonly known as toad lily, is a herbaceous perennial with arching stems, broad lance-shaped leaves, and distinctive, orchid-like flowers that are usually pale with darker markings.
The cultivar Golden Leopard features striking yellow flowers with prominent dark spots, making it a standout variety for shaded garden borders and woodland gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Medium to wet
Humidity
Prefers moist air
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Early summer – Late summer
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer during early spring.
- Mulch around the plant to retain moisture.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.
- Prune back after flowering to maintain shape.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade with well-draining, humus-rich soil for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently, especially during dry periods 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Divide every few years to rejuvenate growth
Don't
- Avoid overly dry or waterlogged soil ❌
- Don’t expose to full, harsh sunlight
- Refrain from heavy pruning during late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Golden Leopard Toad Lily questions
What zones can Golden Leopard Toad Lily grow in?
Golden Leopard Toad Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Golden Leopard Toad Lily deer resistant?
Yes — Golden Leopard Toad Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Golden Leopard Toad Lily bloom?
Golden Leopard Toad Lily typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Golden Leopard Toad Lily need full sun?
Golden Leopard Toad Lily does best in part shade.
More Tricyrtis to compare
Autumn Glow Toad Lily
Tricyrtis formosana 'Autumn Glow'
Toad Lily
Tricyrtis latifolia
Empress Toad Lily
Tricyrtis x hybrida 'Empress'
Gilt Edge Toad Lily
Tricyrtis hirta 'Gilt Edge'
Wando Toad Lily
Tricyrtis macropoda 'Wando'
Dark Beauty Toad Lily
Tricyrtis hirta 'Dark Beauty'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Golden Leopard Toad Lily with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.