Tricyrtis 

Family. Liliaceae.

Origin. Asia, Himalayas.

Description. The genus Tricyrtis contains about 20 species of perennials with small but extremely attractive flowers and creeping rhizomes. The colorful petals, like the leaves of the plant, are covered with small specks. The bushes have erect, thin stems on which green, heart-shaped or lanceolate leaves up to 15 cm long are alternately located, densely covering the stems. Both the leaves and stems are covered with light pubescence. Flowers with 6 petals, often single, appear mainly at the tops of the shoots, but there are species that form buds along the entire length of the stems - in the axils of the leaves. Depending on the species, the appearance of the buds is very diverse - some may have long and thin petals, others - rounded, and others even look more like bells. Variegated forms are very attractive.

Height. 60 – 80 cm.

Planting, care

Temperature

Tricyrtis does not like extreme heat and during the growing season the plants will benefit from a temperature range from 18 to 22 ° C.

Lighting

The bush should not be placed on a brightly lit windowsill - sunlight can only penetrate through the curtain; the flower easily tolerates growing in partial shade.

Care at home

Tricyrtis is not picky and is easy to grow even for novice flower lovers. 

Substrate

Prefers humus-rich, light and porous soil with a slightly acidic pH. Add a small amount of coarse river sand to the mixture to improve drainage.

Feeding

Plants respond positively to organic fertilizing, which is carried out every 2 weeks during the period of active growth. 

Purpose

One of the rare species that can be safely classified as both decorative foliage and flowering. Flower stalks can be used for cutting - they do not lose their attractiveness in a vase for a long time.

Flowering time

It is impossible to give a specific date for the onset of flowering - it varies greatly between species. 

Air humidity

In spring and summer, increase humidity using a room humidifier or by spraying the leaves of the plant in the morning with a spray bottle, being careful not to get it on the buds and flowers.

Transplant

If necessary, replant plants in fresh soil in the spring. 

Soil moisture

Young tricyrtis should be watered in such a way as to avoid overwatering or drought; adult specimens tolerate slight drying of the soil. In autumn, watering is gradually reduced, and in winter it is reduced to a minimum, since the above-ground part dies off. Only softened water at room temperature is used for watering.

Reproduction

Propagates both by seeds and by division and cuttings. When propagating from seeds, it is worth applying cold stratification for several weeks before sowing. Fresh seeds have a high germination rate - they are sown on the surface of the substrate, slightly pressed into it, but without covering it with soil on top.

Pests and diseases

The leaves become spotted and dry, brown at the edges when the soil becomes too dry. Plants rot if there is insufficient drainage or excessive watering.

Of the harmful insects, aphids are the most common.  When grown in open ground may be subject to invasions of slugs and snails, and woodlice.

Note

Tricyrtis is still not very widespread and is rarely found in collections, but this genus is becoming fashionable and is finding more and more new fans.