Tricyrtis hirta, the Toad Lily, is a wonderful hardy perennial from Japan that favours a moist shady position sheltered from strong winds. They grow vertically and form a dense colony with attractive deep green oblong-shaped foliage that is randomly dotted with darker green spots. It is for the exotic flowers, however, that Tricyrtis hirta is grown. Borne in autumn, at a time when most other plants have long since stopped flowering, the blooms are an exquisite and delicate treat to the eye. A pale white star shape, the six tepals are speckled with tiny dark purple spots with a central yellow circle and an ornate purple-spotted stigma. Absolutely gorgeous.

These showy and very desirable plants are extremely easy to grow but do need protection from slugs and snails who seem to find the foliage somewhat tasty.

Highly recommended.