The toad lily (Tricyrtis hirta) is a unique rhizomous perennial plant. Its common name, sometimes used with the additional description "hairy", is justified by the unusual appearance of the plant. Toad lilies usually grow 40 to 50 centimetres tall. Stems that shoot from the runners are erect or arched. The alternate, clasping leaves are lanceolate and coarsely pubescent. The plant itself does not present too much ornamental value. The main and only attraction of the plant are the flowers. These star-shaped flowers are not too large but appear on tops of the stems in large numbers. The impressive anthers and stamen constitute the central part. Light petals of the toad lily are covered with crimson spots that give the flowers tropical flair. A site in partial shade or illuminated by dispersed sunlight provides presented plant optimal growing conditions. It grows well in humous, moist yet properly drained soil. Toad lily likes acidic soil. The flowering may start already in June, but it usually happens only at the end of August. Marvellous flowers develop until November. The beginning of flower bud opening is determined by the length of the day - it is a short-day plant. It is a hardy plant, but we recommend covering it with conifer twigs or dry leaves before winter.

Garden designers recommend planting toad lily in thematic gardens, including Japanese, natural, and forest designs. It looks great in company of other species that are not sun-loving. It harmonizes wonderfully with hosta, ferns, Siberian bugloss, and the low growing bugle. It can be grown in pots, while the flowers can be cut and put into vases.

Toad lily rhizomes should be planted in spring, in April and May, into 10-centimetre deep holes.

Indicated price is valid for 1 seedling of the toad lily.

• Use: ornamental - garden
• Flower colour: whitish to pale purple with purple spots
• Vegetation form: perennial
• Foliage: alternate, clasping, lanceolate, pubescent
• Flower type: star-shaped
• Site: partial shade; humous, moist, properly drained, acidic soil
• Bulbs: 1
• Height: 40 to 50 cm
• Flowering period: August to November
• Wintering in the ground: yes