Product Description
Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow' (30)ct Flat
Common Name: Formosa Toad Lily
Impressive variegation is what sets this toad lily apart from older cultivars. Per Tony Avent, it boasts the widest yellow leaf margins of any variegated Tricyrtis he’s grown. Compared side by side with ‘Gilt Edge’, you’ll see that the overall plant size, habit, and flowers are nearly identical, but it is that light edge that really makes ‘Autumn Glow’ truly live up to its name.
Orchid-like, reddish purple to blue violet speckled blossoms appear from late summer into early fall in the north, midsummer in the south. An excellent perennial for adding late season color to the shade garden.
Tricrytis performs best in humus-rich, evenly moist soil in partial to full shade. It is very long-lived and easy to grow. It tends to be a late-riser, so don't worry if you don't see this plant coming up with other perennials in early spring. Your patience will be greatly rewarded. This species spreads to form wide clumps. Division is recommended every 3-4 years in spring to maintain vigor.
Height: 24.0-26.0 Inches
Spread: 24.0-36.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: (4)5,6,7,8,9
Flower Color: White Shades, Purple-red shades, Purple-blue shades
Foliage Color: Variegated
Part Shade (4-6 hrs. Direct Sun) - Full Shade (< 4 hrs. Direct Sun)
Average to Consistent Water Needs
Average to Fertile Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Midsummer - Early Fall
Growth Rate: Medium
Border Plant, Container, Cut Flower, Cut Foliage, Mass Planting
The Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow', commonly known as the Formosa Toad Lily , is a captivating perennial that brings late-season color to shade gardens. While the name "Toad Lily" might not sound appealing at first, this plant offers unique beauty with its orchid-like flowers and striking foliage. This cultivar is a standout amongst shade-loving perennials and was developed in Japan .
The Tricyrtis genus originates from East Asia, with a native range spanning from the Himalayas to the Philippines . This region's climate corresponds roughly to USDA hardiness zones 5 and warmer, indicating the plant's preference for temperate conditions. In their natural habitat, Tricyrtis thrives in the partial shade found at the edges of forests, along creek beds, and in clearings .
Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow' is particularly admired for its variegated foliage. It boasts the widest and most dramatic leaf variegation among Tricyrtis formosana selections . The lance-shaped leaves have a vibrant green center with a wide, golden-yellow margin . This striking contrast adds visual interest throughout the growing season, even before the flowers emerge. In fact, this variety is worth growing for its foliage alone . In mid to late summer, the plant produces clusters of delicate, orchid-like flowers . These blooms are typically white with reddish-purple to blue-violet freckles and a yellow throat . The combination of unique flowers and variegated foliage makes this cultivar a standout in any shade garden .
This cultivar is also known for its tolerance to deer . While it is generally deer-resistant, it is always a good idea to monitor your garden for any signs of deer browsing, especially if deer are prevalent in your area. Rabbits, on the other hand, tend to avoid this plant .
Growing Conditions Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow' thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4-9 , making it suitable for a wide range of climates. It is important to note that this plant is a late riser in spring , so do not be alarmed if it does not emerge with other perennials.
Sunlight This cultivar prefers partial to full shade, with dappled sunlight being ideal . While it can tolerate some morning sun, afternoon shade is essential, especially in hotter climates, to prevent leaf scorch . Unlike other Tricyrtis varieties, 'Autumn Glow' may perform best in partial shade rather than full shade . A location sheltered from strong winds is also beneficial .
Soil Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow' thrives in humus-rich, consistently moist, well-drained soil . While it prefers slightly acidic soil, it can tolerate a neutral pH . Consistent moisture is crucial, and the soil should never be allowed to completely dry out . Mulching around the plant can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature .
Watering Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged . During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently.
Propagation Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow' can be propagated through seed or division :
- Seed: Sow seeds in pots in a cold frame as soon as the seed is ripe or in the fall.
- Division: Divide established clumps in early spring.
Pests and Diseases Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow' is generally a low-maintenance plant with few pest or disease problems. However, it is important to be aware of potential issues and take preventative measures.
Pests Slugs and snails can be a problem, particularly in moist, shaded environments . These pests are attracted to the foliage and can cause damage by chewing holes in the leaves. Control methods include using organic slug baits, barriers, or encouraging natural predators like birds .
Diseases
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes dark lesions on leaves and stems . This can lead to leaf drop and weaken the plant. To prevent anthracnose, ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering . If anthracnose occurs, promptly remove and dispose of the affected foliage.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is another fungal disease that can affect Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow' . It appears as discolored spots on the leaves. Good garden hygiene and removing affected leaves can help control it.
- Tricyrtis Floral Virus: This virus, spread by aphids, can cause the flower color to become mottled and then change completely to purple .
Treatment Neem oil can be used as an effective treatment for both pests and fungal diseases .
Uses in the Garden
Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow' is a versatile plant with various uses in the garden. Its compact size, reaching up to 24-26 inches tall and 24-36 inches wide , makes it suitable for borders, woodland gardens, and even containers . It can be used as an accent plant, ground cover, or massed planting to create a dramatic effect .
The late-season blooms of Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow' extend the color and interest in the garden when many other plants have finished flowering. Its unique flowers and attractive foliage make it a valuable addition to any shade garden. It is also an excellent cut flower, adding a touch of exotic beauty to floral arrangements .
Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow' is a remarkable perennial that offers both beauty and resilience. Its most striking feature is arguably its variegated foliage, with the widest and most dramatic leaf variegation among Tricyrtis formosana selections. The leaves have a vibrant green center with a wide, golden-yellow margin, providing visual interest throughout the growing season. In mid to late summer, the plant produces clusters of delicate, orchid-like flowers, typically white with reddish-purple to blue-violet freckles and a yellow throat.
This cultivar thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4-9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. It prefers partial to full shade, with dappled sunlight being ideal. Thriving in humus-rich, consistently moist, well-drained soil, it is relatively low-maintenance and adaptable. While generally pest and disease-free, potential issues include slugs, snails, anthracnose, leaf spot, and the Tricyrtis floral virus. Preventative measures and treatments like neem oil can help maintain the plant's health.
Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow' is a versatile plant with various uses in the garden, suitable for borders, woodland gardens, containers, and as a cut flower. Its late-season blooms extend the color and interest in the garden when many other plants have finished flowering. With its unique characteristics and adaptability, Tricyrtis f. 'Autumn Glow' is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking to add late-season color and texture to their shade gardens.
Thirty (30) plants per flat (or tray). Approximate Plug Measurements: 3 inches deep x 2 inches wide.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
