Ligularia stenocephala     Family: Asteraceae
(lig-yew-LAIR-ee-ah sten-oh-SEF-ah-lah)

Common name: narrow spiked ligularia
Zone: 4 – 8
Height: 4-5 ft (1.2-1.5m) Spread: 2-3 ft (60-90cm)
Aspect: partial shade; full shade
Soil: moist; fertile; well-draining
Water: regular

Description: An herbaceous perennial with an upright habit. Large, dark green, heart-shaped leaves on deep purple-red stems are slightly incised. Narrow spikes of deep yellow flowers appear on tall stems in early to late summer.

Special Notes: Native to the temperate regions of Europe and Asia. Good cut flower. Good leaf colour in autumn. Attracts bees and butterflies. Deer resistant. Slugs and snails are a problem. Propagate by fresh seed; division in spring or autumn.

RHS Award of Garden Merit 1993

Posted on February 3, 2013