Species

perennial

Karasuba Toad Lily

The Story

Plant Bio

Tricyrtis nana, known as the Dwarf Toad Lily, is a low-growing perennial with arching stems, small lance-shaped leaves, and intricate, orchid-like flowers that are typically purple with darker spots.

This cultivar, Karasuba, is distinguished by its very compact, dwarf size and dark foliage, with striking, orchid-like spotted flowers.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds delicate, exotic purple blooms to shaded gardens, enhancing visual interest.

Prefers shady spots, reducing need for sun-tracking maintenance.

Provides nectar for pollinators and habitat for beneficial insects.

SpeciesTricyrtis nanaDwarf Toad Lily

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

6 inches

Width

8 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth.
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring to promote flowering.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring or fall.
Protect from harsh winter winds with mulch or cover.

Pro Tip

Ensure partial shade and well-drained soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring or fall
Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don’t expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves
Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall
Do not let soil dry out completely

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderSilvery-textured groundcoverDelicate border accent

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Heucheras Japanese forest grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Karasuba Toad Lily questions

What zones can Karasuba Toad Lily grow in?

Karasuba 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 Karasuba Toad Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Karasuba Toad Lily bloom?

Karasuba 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 Karasuba Toad Lily need full sun?

Karasuba Toad Lily does best in part shade.