Clustered Leopard's Bane
doronicum clusii
Also known as: ["Leopard's Bane","Himalayan Leopard's Bane"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the mountains of Europe, known for its bright yellow daisy-like flowers and heart-shaped leaves.
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 clusii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border fronts, rock gardens, or woodland edges
- 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 to moderately draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, fertile, well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light). Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide dappled shade during peak afternoon hours. Indoors, place near an east-facing window or a spot with bright indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun; adjust shade as seasons change.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on weather and soil moisture.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from frost if young; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive foliage growth; stop fertilizing before winter dormancy; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Division is the most reliable method. Separate clumps in early spring or fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Dig up the clump.
- Separate healthy divisions with roots.
- Replant at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly.
Best Time: Early spring as new growth emerges or early fall before winter dormancy.
Environment
Cool, moist conditions with partial shade. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Rich, well-draining garden soil or a mix of compost and sand.
Hormone
Not necessary for division.
Timeline
Immediate establishment after division; flowering may occur in the first season.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife or spade, gloves.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has healthy roots and shoots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers by cutting just above a leaf node. Remove yellowing or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming and tidy up dead foliage in fall or spring.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Deadhead regularly; remove damaged foliage; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove the plant from its container; loosen roots if pot-bound; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Not typically required as Doronicum clusii is usually grown in the ground. If grown in a container, repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring to early summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in late summer and fall as growth slows.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure. Incorporate sand or perlite if soil is heavy clay.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration, but the plant is generally hardy to cold. Prolonged freezing may damage tender growth.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots in winter. Protect from harsh winds and provide shelter if temperatures drop below -10°C (14°F).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering. Heat stress may cause the plant to go dormant prematurely.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture. Avoid fertilizing during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring to early summer). Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDoronicum clusii is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicDoronicum clusii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicDoronicum clusii is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Doronicum clusii grow?
A: It typically reaches 30-60 cm in height.
Q: Does Doronicum clusii require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture.
Q: Is Doronicum clusii deer resistant?
A: It is moderately deer resistant, though deer may occasionally browse on it.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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