Species
Tricyrtis formosanaToad Lily2 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Tricyrtis formosana, commonly known as the Formosan Toad Lily, is a perennial herbaceous plant featuring arching stems with narrow, lance-shaped leaves and distinctive, star-shaped purple flowers with darker markings that bloom in late summer to fall.
Valued for its unique, orchid-like flowers that bloom late in the season when many other perennials are fading. It thrives in shady, moist locations.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Consistently moist soil
Humidity
Prefers high humidity environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Taiwan
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Plant in well-draining soil with partial shade for optimal growth.
- Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide mature clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to promote health.
Pro Tip
Use shaded areas with rich, moist soil for vibrant growth and flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Provide partial shade in hot climates
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
- Expose to harsh direct sunlight ❌
- Overcrowd plants, limiting airflow ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check |
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
Formosa Toad Lily questions
What zones can Formosa Toad Lily grow in?
Formosa 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 Formosa Toad Lily deer resistant?
Yes — Formosa Toad Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Formosa Toad Lily bloom?
Formosa Toad Lily typically blooms in late summer to early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Formosa Toad Lily need full sun?
Formosa 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 Formosa 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.