Ligularia: A Statement in Your Garden
Lynda Ellis, Anoka County Master Gardener
Ligularia (ligularia dentata), also called leopard plant, is a very nice plant for a shady or partly sunny location in zones 3-9. There are over 120 species of this plant and it's especially well-suited for woodland gardens or areas near water features like ponds, as it thrives in moist conditions. Its preference for moist conditions makes it suitable for planting in damp areas where other plants might struggle. Some ligularia will even tolerate standing water! Ligularia is a bold choice for a garden and is available in both standard and dwarf varieties. The size range is between 2 and 6 feet tall and wide. Ligularia is a clumping plant that enjoys its status a staple perennial in many gardens.
Beyond the aesthetic appeal of beautiful dark foliage (deep green, purple, or bronze leaves), ligularia attracts bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity. It has fuzzy, mustard-yellow flower spikes which will brighten up the shady areas of your yard. Removing spikes when they are done blooming allows more spikes to bloom. An added bonus of ligularia is that the serrated foliage is a bit too thick and tough for deer to chew, so many times they move on to another more vulnerable selection. However, if you look closely, you will notice bees enjoying the flowers' pollen when in bloom
A friend gave me from a few Liguria plants. From that small beginning they spread to cover a large patch under a spruce tree. The location is also near a creek so the soil is moist. Ligularia prefer a richer soil. Ligularia does need to be cut back in the fall. In colder climates, ligularia may also suffer from frost damage.
When planting ligularia, it is best to avoid locations with intense afternoon sun, which can scorch its leaves. Planting in a location with more shade or dappled sunlight can prevent this issue. In colder climates, ligularia may suffer from frost damage. Ligularia may need protection from snails and slugs. Physical barriers (copper tape or sharp grit), watering in the mornings, and trying to lure pests away are usually used. Improving air circulation around the plants is helpful as well.
If you're considering covering a large area with ligularia, consider planting your ligularia in a tighter formation. Be aware of the adult size of your species. Ligularia is predominantly grown for its foliage, however, the foliage does become a dark mush after frost. Ligularia should be planted at the same depth they were growing in their nursery pots, ensuring the crown (where stems meet roots) is level with the soil surface. This means digging a hole that's at least 50-75% deeper and wider than the container they're currently in.
Ligularia is a cultivar that provides texture, color, and interest to woodland gardens and there are many varieties to choose from, depending upon if you prefer the foliage to make a statement, or you are looking to showcase the daisy-like flowers. There is a ligularia for every shady garden!