Tricyrtis formosana ‘Gilt Edge’
Blooming Time
Exposure
I’m exercising my right to create a new common name for this lovely plant. The old name toad-lily is not only a sales killer, but grossly inept at describing a plant that has no toad-like spots on its leaves, as do some members of this genus. Instead, `Gilt Edge’ is clothed in gracefully ornate rich green lily-like leaves that are trimmed in the neatest cleanest golden yellow you will ever see. `Gilt Edge’ is robust yet well behaved, and during late summer and fall is graced with a generous complement of exquisite rosy purplish pink orchidlike flowers. ‘Gilt Edge’ should be used in areas close to people so that its intriguing foliage and flowers may be viewed close up. In containers, as edging, and as a small to moderate scale ground cover, ‘Gilt Edge’ Orchid Flower is a fine choice.
Details
Hardiness Zone:
Blossom Color:
Violet to Purple
Growth Habit:
Slow Spreading
Max Height:
12"
Texture:
Recommended Spacing:
We sell this plant in these containers:
Special Characteristics
Features
Lovely deep pink, pale pink spotted, fallborne, orchid-like flowers are carried upon arching stems between exquisite dark green irregularly-gold-trimmed foliage.
Landscape Value
Small to moderate scale ground cover, accent, edging, or companion. Excellent arching over terrace or retaining walls.
Care
Watering:
'Gilt Edge' Orchid Flower is moderately drought tolerant but benefits from occasional watering, to maintain soil in a moist but not wet condition, during the summer months.
Fertilizing:
'Gilt Edge' Orchid Flower benefits from regular feeding and likely will grow best with: a spring (May) application of slow release fertilizer with a 3-1-2 ratio (such as a 15-5-10) at a rate of about 10 pounds per 1000 square feet, and a summer (July) application of slow release fertilizer with a 3-1-2 ratio (such as a 15-5-10) at a rate of about 10 pound per 1000 square feet, and and an early fall (September) application of a 2-1-2 ratio (such as a 10-5-10) at a rate of 15 pounds per 1000 square feet to encourage root development and cold hardiness.
Pruning:
'Gilt Edge' Orchid Flower is a deciduous plant (nonevergreen) and does not require pruning. It is perfectly acceptable to allow the dropped leaves to decompose and nourish the soil.