Contents
Description
Tricyrtis Formosana, also known as Toad Lily, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Taiwan. It belongs to the family Liliaceae and is a popular choice for gardeners due to its unique appearance and easy care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Tricyrtis |
Appearance
Tricyrtis Formosana has a unique appearance with its purple-spotted white flowers that resemble toad skin, hence the name Toad Lily. The plant can grow up to three feet tall and has lance-shaped leaves that grow up to six inches long. The plant blooms in late summer or early fall and can last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Tricyrtis Formosana is an easy plant to care for, and it thrives in moist, well-drained soil with partial shade. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Tricyrtis Formosana prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tricyrtis Formosana is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to some diseases:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
- Slugs: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers. Use slug bait or beer traps to control them.
Habitat
Tricyrtis Formosana is native to Taiwan and grows in forested areas and on rocky slopes. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tricyrtis Formosana grow in full sun?
A: No, the plant prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Q: How often should I water Tricyrtis Formosana?
A: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Tricyrtis Formosana?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Q: How do I propagate Tricyrtis Formosana?
A: The plant can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and separate the rhizomes into sections with at least one shoot and some roots. Replant the sections in moist soil.
Related Plants
- Tricyrtis hirta
- Tricyrtis macrantha
- Tricyrtis lasiocarpa
- Tricyrtis latifolia
References
- Gardening Know How. (2021). Toad Lily Care – Tips For Growing Toad Lily Plants. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/toad-lily/toad-lilies.htm
- The Spruce. (2021). How to Grow and Care for Toad Lilies. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/grow-toad-lilies-1315849
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Tricyrtis formosana. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d640
