November 2007 — Tricyrtis / Toadlily Print
Thursday, 01 November 2007 03:00
Tricyrtis Tricyrtis, commonly known as toadlily, is a part of the Liliaceae family. Native to Asia, Tricyrtis is considered by many gardeners to be a must-have addition to the fall garden. Its intricate and spectacular orchid-like flowers are relatively small and as such need to be viewed at close range in order to truly appreciate their extravagant beauty.

Tricyrtis is a woodland plant requiring shade to partial shade conditions and rich, well-drained soil for best results. There are many varieties of this lovely plant available in today's garden centers; the following are three of the better selections for your consideration.

Tricyrtis hirta
Tricyrtis formonsana
Tricyrtis hirta 'Alba'
While Tricyrtis is generally known for its various mottled color varieties, the 'Alba,' as suggested by the name, features pure white flowers in late fall. The plant spreads slowly to form clumps with several large, showy and flower covered stems, accompanied by some smaller stems. The height ranges from 20 to 40 inches. Plant in rich, moist well-drained soils, or add compost in dry garden areas.
Zones 4 to 8.

Tricyrtis hirta 'Moonlight'
Above and beyond its dramatic white with purple-flecked flowers, this variety of Tricyrtis also features bright yellow-greenish foliage, making it a spectacular addition to an otherwise fading fall garden. Like all Tricyrtis, 'Moonlight' prefers full to part shade, making it a great way to brighten up otherwise bleak garden areas. The long-lasting bell-shaped flowers are nestled in the lead axils. Maximum height is 18 to 24 inches and the plant gradually increases to a clump up to two feet across.

Tricyrtis formonsana
The small but showy flowers are white with deep purple-red spots and yellow throats that bloom in late summer to early fall. Spreading by rhizomes, this plant will colonize in the garden without being invasive. Grows to a height of two to three feet and prefers part to full shade locations in relatively moist conditions. Like all Tricyrtis, this is a low-maintenance selection ideally suited to most perennial gardens.
Zone 4 to 9.
 

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