Toad Lily
Tricyrtis hirta
Family: Liliaceae · Also called Hototogisu, Spotted Toad Lily, Hairy Toad Lily, Uvularia hirta, Compsoa hirta
Green & Fresh · Autumn bloomer
Toad lilies are autumn's hidden treasure, small, orchid-like flowers speckled and spotted in purple on white, arching gracefully from the tips of stems in deep shade. They bloom when most shade plants have long finished, bringing weeks of delicate intrigue to the woodland garden from September through November.
hidden beauty, uniqueness, mystery
In the Victorian language of flowers, toad lily means “Hidden beauty revealed”. In Japan, toad lilies are called 'hototogisu' after the cuckoo bird, their spotted petals resemble the bird's speckled breast. They're treasured in Japanese shade gardens and tea gardens for their late bloom time and subtle beauty. The 'toad' name comes from the Philippine species whose slimy stem sap was used to attract frogs.
Did You Know?
The spots on toad lily petals are nectar guides for their long-tongued bee pollinators. Despite looking like orchids, they're true lilies. There are about 20 species, all East Asian. They can take 3-4 years to establish but then spread gently by rhizomes into elegant colonies, the patient gardener's reward.
Moist, shaded woodland floors and stream banks in mountainous regions
Toad Lily is native to Japan, Taiwan. It naturally grows in moist, shaded woodland floors and stream banks in mountainous regions.
Scent Profile
“Essentially unscented, toad lilies are appreciated for their extraordinary orchid-like spotted patterns, not their fragrance. They bring quiet intrigue to shaded autumn gardens.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameTricyrtis hirta
- FamilyLiliaceae
- Native ToJapan, Taiwan
- Bloom SeasonAutumn
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
In Japan, toad lilies are called 'hototogisu' after the cuckoo bird, their spotted petals resemble the bird's speckled breast. They're treasured in Japanese shade gardens and tea gardens for their late bloom time and subtle beauty. The 'toad' name comes from the Philippine species whose slimy stem sap was used to attract frogs.