Narrow Spiked Ligularia

(Ligularia stenocephala)

Narrow Spiked Ligularia (Ligularia stenocephala)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ligularia stenocephala, commonly known as Narrow Spiked Ligularia or Leopard Plant, is a deciduous perennial herb native to moist meadows and stream banks in East Asia, particularly in China, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan. It typically grows to a height of 5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters) and a spread of about 4 feet (1.2 meters). The plant features large, heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges and tall spikes of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall, which are quite showy and attract pollinators.

Narrow Spiked Ligularia is valued for its bold foliage and striking flowers, which make it a focal point in shade gardens, woodland plantings, and along water features. It thrives in cool, moist conditions, mimicking its native habitat. It is often used as a specimen plant or in mass plantings for dramatic effect. This Ligularia requires consistently moist soil and should not be allowed to dry out. It prefers rich, humusy soil with good drainage and can tolerate full shade to part shade. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to slug and snail damage. Additionally, it may wilt in too much sun or during hot weather, so afternoon shade is beneficial.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 5-6 feet
  • Width: 3-4 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Shade, Part Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

native to moist meadows and stream banks in East Asia, particularly in China, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan

Other Names

Common Names: Golden Ray, Mörk Gullstav, 곤달비, 戟葉橐吾

Scientific Names: , Ligularia stenocephala, Parasenecio subglaber, Cacalia subglabra, Ligularia stenocephala f. quinquebracteata, Senecio stenocephalus, Ligularia taiheizanensis, Ligularia oligantha, Ligularia sibirica var. oligantha, Ligularia sibirica var. stenocephala

GBIF Accepted Name: Ligularia stenocephala (Maxim.) Matsum. & Koidz.