Tricyrtis hirta aka Toadlily

Tricyrtis hirta is a perennial in the lily family. Its common names include Japanese toad lily and hairy toad lily. It comes from central and southern Japan, including Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. Wild plants grow on shaded cliffs and beside streams. In gardens, it forms slow-growing clumps with upright, arching stems. Plants reach about 2–3 feet [0.61–0.91 metres] tall. RHS gives an upper height of 3.3 feet [1 metre]. Clumps can spread to 2 feet [0.61 metres] wide.

Fine hairs cover the green stems and leaves. The stems do not branch, and the leaves alternate along them. Each leaf clasps the stem at its base. The light green blades are oval or oblong, with parallel veins. Leaves measure about 0.25–0.5 feet [0.08–0.15 metres] long. The foliage dies back for winter. Cut back the old stems as the plant dies down.

Flowers open from late summer into fall. Chicago Botanic Garden records bloom in September and October. White or pale lilac tepals carry many purple spots. Each flower has six tepals and faces upward. Flowers grow near stem tips and in upper leaf axils. They appear alone or in groups of two or three. Pollen-bearing stamens and styles project beyond the tepals. Bees and butterflies pollinate the flowers; hummingbirds also take nectar. Cylindrical capsules follow the flowers and release flat, papery seeds. Plants may seed themselves where growing conditions suit them.

Choose a sheltered site in full or partial shade. Chicago also lists full sun, unlike the shade-focused care sources. The soil needs steady moisture and good drainage. Add organic matter, and do not let the soil dry out. Slightly acid soil suits it, though RHS also lists neutral and alkaline soils. Chicago lists USDA zones 4–9, while RHS rates it H7. Young plants may need winter protection in colder areas. Grow it in woodland beds, shaded borders, or containers. Place it near paths to see the small flowers clearly.

Care is light when the site meets its needs. Slugs can damage plants, and rabbits eat leaves and buds. Sources disagree on deer resistance, so browsing remains a concern. Serious disease is uncommon, but NCSU notes two possible problems. Aphids spread a floral virus that changes flower color. Anthracnose can cause orange leaf spots. Water at soil level to help keep foliage dry. Plants For A Future lists cooked leaves and young shoots as edible. It reports no known hazards, but this does not establish pet safety.