Tricyrtis Hirta

Tricyrtis hirta, the Japanese toad lily, brings orchid-like detail to the shaded garden at the end of summer. Hairy upright or arching stems carry pointed leaves and clusters of white, funnel-shaped flowers heavily spotted with purple, often continuing into mid-autumn. The name hirta refers to the soft hairs on the stems and foliage. Native to Japanese woodland, it thrives in cool humus and filtered light, where the intricate blooms can be enjoyed at close range beside paths, ferns, hostas and shaded borders.