Description
This frost-hardy perennial of the aster family (Asteraceae) grows up to 150 cm tall. It has large, round to heart-shaped leaves, flushed brownish-purple underneath, and a clump-forming habit.
It flowers from August to September: large yellow-orange flower heads appear on branched stems rising above the leaves, contrasting interestingly with the dark foliage.
It grows excellently under trees and by ponds. Plant 40 cm apart.
Requirements
Ligularia needs fertile, loamy, constantly moist soil with a pH close to neutral. The plant prefers shaded positions and does not tolerate prolonged sun – in hot weather it wilts quickly.
Propagation
Ligularia is best propagated by division in spring. It can also be grown from seed sown under glass in early spring; plant out the young plants when they are 10–15 cm tall.