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Key characteristics

Family: Asteraceae
Height: 24 to 36 inches
Width: 18 to 30 inches
Flower color: Clusters of orange-yellow, daisy-like blooms
Foliage color: Large, rounded leaves that emerge with a purplish-red tint, maturing to deep green with purple undersides
Bloom time: Mid-summer to early fall
Light: Full sun to part shade
Water: Prefers moist to wet soil; ideal for boggy areas or near water features
Maintenance: Low; remove spent flowers to maintain appearance; division every 3 to 4 years to rejuvenate
Growing zone: USDA zones 3 to 8
Wildlife: Attracts butterflies; deer-resistant

Perennials

Ligularia dentata 'Desdemona'

Desdemona Leopard Plant

Ligularia dentata 'Desdemona' is a perennial with large, rounded, dark green leaves that form a bold, basal rosette. In late summer to early fall, the plant produces clusters of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers on tall, upright stems, making it a great choice for adding a splash of color to shaded or woodland gardens.

Native to East Asia, 'Desdemona' thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers partial to full shade, making it an excellent option for water gardens or rain gardens.

Light

Full sun to part shade

Water

Prefers moist to wet soil; ideal for boggy areas or near water features

Bloom time

Mid-summer to early fall

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Cottage Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Rain Gardens
Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Daylilies · Japanese anemones · Bleeding hearts · Catmint · Heucheras · Lady's mantle

Design tip

Fall bloom is its strength, and it earns a place near a path or seating area used late in the year. It takes sun or light shade, which makes it useful along the changing light of a bed edge or a partly shaded border.