Ligularia (Leopard Plant) is a star perennial with its stunning foliage and dazzling flowers in the shade garden
Ligularia, also known as Leopard Plant, is a fantastic choice for adding visual interest shaded to semi-shaded garden areas, especially where soil moisture can be maintained. Its dramatic foliage and bright flowers make it a standout addition to any garden, and its attractiveness to pollinators adds an ecological benefit.
Ligularia is a striking perennial plant known for its large, bold leaves and eye-catching, tall flower spikes. This plant belongs to the Asteraceae family, like daisies and sunflowers. There are about 140 species of Ligularia, each with unique characteristics.
Native: Ligularia is native to Asia, particularly in regions of China and Japan. It thrives naturally in moist, mountainous areas, often along streambanks and in woodland settings. This background gives a clue to its preferred growing conditions in garden settings.
Growth Habit: Ligularia is an herbaceous perennial, meaning it dies back to the ground in winter and re-emerges in spring. It’s primarily grown for its foliage and flowers. The plant typically forms clumps and can be quite substantial in size. It grows upright and can become quite bushy, making it an excellent choice for filling in large spaces in the garden.
Size: Ligularia can grow substantially, with some species growing up to 2-6 feet (60-180 cm) tall and spreading 2-4 feet (60-120 cm) wide. This impressive stature makes it a focal point in garden design.
Flowers and Blooming Season: The flowers of Ligularia are one of its key features. They appear on tall spikes and are usually bright yellow or orange, adding a splash of color to the garden. The blooming season generally spans from mid-to-late summer through early fall.. Discover 50 Vibrant Fall Flowers Perfect for Your Autumn Garden.
Foliage: Its foliage is varied, often large, with some species featuring heart-shaped or serrated leaves. The leaves can have a glossy appearance and are sometimes marked with different colors or patterns.
Hardiness: Ligularia is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9, making it suitable for a wide range of temperate climates.
Uses: Due to its size and showy nature, Ligularia is often used as a specimen plant in garden borders, bog gardens, rain gardens, beside ponds or streams, or in any moist, shaded area. It’s also effective in mass plantings for a dramatic effect.
Wildlife: The flowers attract a range of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to a wildlife or pollinator garden.
Toxicity: Ligularia is not known to be toxic to humans or pets, making it a safe choice for gardens frequented by children and animals.
Deer and Rabbit: Ligularia is somewhat resistant to deer and rabbits, although in conditions of scarcity, deer may browse on its leaves.
Invasiveness: Ligularia is not considered invasive. It grows in clumps and does not spread aggressively.
Hardiness |
3 - 9 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Perennials |
Plant Family | Asteraceae |
Genus | Ligularia |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade |
Season of Interest | Summer (Mid, Late), Fall |
Height | 2' - 6' (60cm - 180cm) |
Spread | 2' - 4' (60cm - 120cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average, High |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Neutral, Alkaline |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Poorly Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Cut Flowers |
Tolerance | Full Shade, Wet Soil |
Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
Landscaping Ideas | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers, Bog Gardens, Ponds And Streams, Rain Gardens |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
Hardiness |
3 - 9 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Perennials |
Plant Family | Asteraceae |
Genus | Ligularia |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade |
Season of Interest | Summer (Mid, Late), Fall |
Height | 2' - 6' (60cm - 180cm) |
Spread | 2' - 4' (60cm - 120cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average, High |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Neutral, Alkaline |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Poorly Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Cut Flowers |
Tolerance | Full Shade, Wet Soil |
Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
Landscaping Ideas | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers, Bog Gardens, Ponds And Streams, Rain Gardens |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!