Leopard's Bane
doronicum plantagineum
Also known as: ["Arnica plantaginea","Himalayan Leopard's Bane"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with daisy-like yellow flowers, native to Europe and Western Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Doronicum |
| Botanical Name: | Doronicum plantagineum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade, especially in warmer climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late autumn.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or damaged growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or bright indirect light per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; enrich soil with organic matter annually; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cold but may struggle in prolonged heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; provide shade during heatwaves.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before active growth; water after fertilizing to distribute nutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings; division is the most reliable method for Doronicum.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into sections with healthy roots.
- Plant cuttings in moist medium.
- Keep moist and shaded until established.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is not in full bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for cuttings; partial shade for divisions.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added compost or peat moss.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 3–4 weeks, full growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, trowel, rooting hormone (optional), pots.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; use clean tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead flowers; cut back old foliage; divide clumps every few years.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; cut back foliage in late autumn to tidy the plant.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean knife.
Checklist
Remove dead flowers; cut back old stems; clean tools before use; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
For containers, use a pot one size larger with good drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift the plant; divide into sections; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with adequate spacing.
Suggestions
Not typically required unless grown in containers; divide clumps every 3–4 years to maintain health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot/bed; divide carefully; replant at same depth; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in temperatures below 20°F (-6°C); roots can freeze in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect with frost cloth in extreme cold; ensure soil is well-drained to prevent root freeze.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may become stunted.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid high nitrogen; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially nitrogen-rich formulas.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDoronicum plantagineum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicDoronicum plantagineum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicDoronicum plantagineum is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known significant toxic effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Doronicum plantagineum grow?
A: It typically grows to 60–90 cm (24–35 inches) in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if kept moist.
Q: When does it bloom?
A: It blooms in early spring, usually from April to June.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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