Tricyrtis formosa 'Samurai' is a late blooming woodland perennial prized for its unique orchid like flowers and striking variegated foliage. Its star shaped blossoms appear in fall showcasing creamy yellow petals speckled with deep maroon spots. The compact habit and glossy green leaves with golden margins make it an elegant accent in shady borders and under deciduous trees, extending seasonal interest late into the year.
Height & Spread: 12 - 18 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, humus rich soil
Watering Needs: Consistent moisture, especially in dry periods
Deer Resistance: Not preferred by deer due to foliage texture
Native Status
Tricyrtis formosa is native to Taiwan and East Asia. The 'Samurai' cultivar was bred for ornamental use and brings exotic late season color to temperate gardens.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Visited by late flying bumblebees and solitary bees seeking autumn nectar when few other sources remain.
Butterflies
- Provides a critical nectar source for fall flying butterflies such as Red Admirals and Painted Ladies as they migrate or prepare for overwintering.
Birds
- Dense foliage offers ground shelter for small birds like wrens and juncos during cooler months.
Beneficial Insects
- Attracts syrphid flies and parasitic wasps which contribute to pest control in surrounding shaded gardens.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space plants 15 - 18 in apart to allow for lateral spread and airflow beneath dense canopies.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for shaded foundation beds, underplantings with hostas, or used in groups to line woodland pathways with late season color and texture.
Companion Plants
- Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' - Elegant arching stems with white edged leaves mirror the refinement of Tricyrtis and offer spring to fall interest.
- Ferns (Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum') - Adds silvery purple fronds that contrast well with variegated foliage and woodland textures.
- Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' - Graceful yellow striped blades echo the golden leaf margins and enhance movement in shade beds.
- Heuchera 'Berry Smoothie' - Bright foliage and subtle pink flowers echo the variegation in 'Samurai'.
- Epimedium x rubrum - Early red toned blooms complement the autumn flowers while creating a soft carpet beneath.