1 named cultivar

‘Nakatsugawa’Ohsumi toad lily Nakatsugawa

perennial

Ohsumi's Toad Lily

The Story

Plant Bio

Tricyrtis ohsumiensis is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its arching stems, lance-shaped leaves, and distinctive star-shaped, purple-spotted flowers that bloom in late summer to fall.

This species is celebrated for its striking spotted flowers and ability to thrive in shaded, woodland garden settings, making it a popular choice for adding color and texture to shaded borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds unique spotted purple flowers to shaded gardens, attracting pollinators and providing visual interest.

Prefers moist, well-drained soil, making it suitable for rain gardens and shaded borders.

Supports pollinator populations, especially native bees and butterflies.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring
Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
Place in partial shade for best flowering
Water regularly during dry spells

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains moist and provide partial shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture
Divide plants every 3–4 years to maintain vigor

Don't

Avoid full sun exposure which can scorch leaves ❌
Don't let soil dry out completely
Refrain from heavy fertilization in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Pest Check

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with purple accentsMoist woodland garden edge

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes Japanese painted fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ohsumi's Toad Lily questions

What zones can Ohsumi's Toad Lily grow in?

Ohsumi's 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 Ohsumi's Toad Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Ohsumi's Toad Lily bloom?

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

Does Ohsumi's Toad Lily need full sun?

Ohsumi's Toad Lily does best in part shade.