Toad lily requires the same conditions as Solomon’s seal and many other shade plants—rich, woodsy soil that never dries out, but never floods. Incorporate lots of leaf compost before planting, keep the soil mulched, and water well during drought. Divide plants in early spring before they break dormancy. Don’t cut down the leaves in fall; that will make it easy to find them in spring to divide for more plants.
Despite its unflattering name, toad lily is a charming Asian plant that flowers late in the year when there isn’t much color in the shade garden. The 1-inch blossoms must be seen up close to be fully appreciated. They have six white petals (tepals, technically), spotted in purple and maroon. Their six-part stamens protrude from the flower in a very interesting arrangement. Flowers grow in a row like a chain of orchids draped along the stem. With leaves arranged on either side of an unbranched but elegantly arched stem, the foliage resembles that of Solomon’s seal.
Grow toad lily in shady areas where color is needed toward the end of the gardening season. It blends in well with other plants, but to enjoy it to its fullest, plant it at the edge of the border or beside a path where the remarkable flowers can easily be seen up close. Plant enough so you can cut a few to bring inside, for these make good (and fascinating) cut flowers. Underplanting with autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale) makes a really striking combination.
ZONES: 5–9
BLOOM TIME: Late summer to fall
LIGHT: Part shade
HEIGHT: 24–36 inches
INTEREST: Fascinating flowers on plants resembling Solomon’s seal