Species

perennial

Ohsumi toad lily Nakatsugawa

The Story

Plant Bio

Tricyrtis ohsumiensis, commonly known as the Ohsumi toad lily, is a herbaceous perennial with arching stems, lance-shaped leaves, and distinctive orchid-like, pale purple to violet flowers marked with darker spots.

The Nakatsugawa cultivar is distinguished by its particularly dense flower clusters and enhanced flower coloration, making it a striking addition to shaded garden borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds exotic, spotted blossoms to shaded gardens, attracting pollinators and enhancing visual interest.

Prefers shaded, moist environments, making it ideal for low-light garden spots.

Supports pollinator activity, including butterflies and bees, in woodland and shaded areas.

SpeciesTricyrtis ohsumiensisOhsumi's Toad Lily

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Place in partial shade for optimal growth.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
Stake taller plants if necessary to support arching stems.
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring for rejuvenation.

Pro Tip

Prefers moist, well-drained soil in shaded areas for best flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
Apply organic mulch to conserve moisture
Divide plants every 3–4 years for healthy growth

Don't

Avoid dry, exposed locations ❌
Don’t let soil become waterlogged
Refrain from disturbing roots during flowering period

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMossy shaded garden nookRomantic cottage garden

Companion Plants

HostaFerns AstilbeJapanese forest grass Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ohsumi toad lily Nakatsugawa questions

What zones can Ohsumi toad lily Nakatsugawa grow in?

Ohsumi toad lily Nakatsugawa is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Ohsumi toad lily Nakatsugawa deer resistant?

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

When does Ohsumi toad lily Nakatsugawa bloom?

Ohsumi toad lily Nakatsugawa 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 Ohsumi toad lily Nakatsugawa need full sun?

Ohsumi toad lily Nakatsugawa does best in part shade.