1 / 5

Key characteristics

Family: Asteraceae
Height: 36 to 60 inches
Width: 24 to 48 inches
Flower color: Bright lemon-yellow flowers with a daisy-like shape and prominent, slender petals
Foliage color: Green, heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges
Bloom time: Mid to late summer
Light: Partial shade to full shade
Water: Moist to wet soil conditions
Maintenance: Medium; remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 8
Wildlife: Attracts butterflies; deer-resistant

Perennials

Ligularia stenocephala 'The Rocket'

The Rocket Leopard Plant

Ligularia stenocephala 'The Rocket' is a bold perennial known for its tall, spiky clusters of bright yellow flowers that bloom in mid to late summer. The flowers rise above the plant's large, dark green, glossy leaves, creating an upright, dramatic presence in the garden.

Originating from the mountains of China, 'The Rocket' thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers partial to full shade, making it ideal for damp or woodland conditions.

Light

Partial shade to full shade

Water

Moist to wet soil conditions

Bloom time

Mid to late summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Shade Gardens
Woodland Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Rain Gardens

Companion plants

Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers · Epimediums · Hostas · Bleeding hearts

Design tip

Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)