Tricyrtis or 'toad lily'.

With pretty flowers that resemble those of an orchid these hardy rhizomatus perennials flower in autumn and are a great addition to the garden. They grow well in shade especially in warmer areas and require a humus rich moist soil to perform at their best. In cooler climates a sheltered position is best so that frosts are avoided. A little water during dry summer periods is appreciated. A native to Asia (China, Japan and Himalayas) these wonderful woodlanders are very popular in Japan.

Propagation is by seed germination or by cuttings taken spring. Well known species such as T.hirta will reach around 1/3m and with the purple flecked flowers adds interest to a shaded position. Keep moist though the summer as Tricyrtis do not like to dry out.

Species and Cultivars

The blue flowering Tricyrtis lasiocarpa (Amethyst Toad Lily) is difficult to find, but an excellent addition to the garden, taller growing with lovely spotted petals, and perhaps better suited to warmer climates. T.backerii and T. lava are other well known species.

Tricyrtis latifolia and Tricyrtis formosana with its pale pink flowers with dark crimson spotting are others to look for. T. adbanii has a lovely lavender flower complemented by a red stigma, a striking species.

Tricyrtis plants and species are available for sale from the following nurseries

KEVOCK GARDEN PLANTS
Postal Address: 16 Kevock Road, Lasswade, Midlothian EH18 1HT - Telephone/Fax: 0131 454 0660
An award-winning specialist Scottish nursery with unusual alpine, bog, woodland and herbaceous plants, shrubs and bulbs. We send plants by mail order throughout Europe. Design service available.

BLUEBELL ARBORETUM and NU RSERY
Annwell Lane Smisby nr. Ashby de la Zouch Derbyshire LE65 2TA - Telephone: *(01530) 413700.
Specialist mail order and retail nursery that grow and sell a huge variety of rare and unusual trees, shrubs, grasses, and herbaceous!