Ligularia ‘The Rocket’, commonly known as Leopard Plant, is a bold, dramatic perennial prized for its large, serrated green leaves and tall spires of yellow flowers that bloom in mid to late summer. Towering 4 to 5 feet tall in bloom, it thrives in moist, shady garden beds and adds strong vertical interest and texture to woodland borders and wet areas. The striking flower spikes rise above a dense clump of foliage, attracting pollinators and brightening shady corners. While a standout ornamental, Ligularia is non-native and offers minimal support for local ecosystems.

Why choose ‘The Rocket’ Leopard Plant:

• Bold texture: Large, serrated foliage adds drama and contrast in shade gardens

• Vertical blooms: Tall yellow flower spikes provide summer interest and pollinator value

• Moisture-loving: Ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, and rich woodland soil

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Best in part shade; avoid direct afternoon sun to prevent wilting

• Soil needs: Moist, rich, well-drained soil; thrives in consistently damp areas

• Maintenance: Water regularly during dry spells; remove faded blooms for tidiness

Designs for your garden:

• Woodland borders: Great backdrop or accent among ferns and native perennials

• Rain gardens: Thrives in moisture-retentive spots that mimic natural streambanks

• Pollinator beds: Attracts bees and butterflies with its showy summer blooms

Ecological considerations:

• Non-native species: Offers limited ecological support for native wildlife

• Needs moisture: Best used in areas with consistent soil moisture

• Combine with natives: Use alongside native plants to enhance habitat value

Looking for native alternatives?

Lobelia cardinalis – Cardinal Flower: A moisture-loving native perennial with tall spikes of vivid red flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators.
Chelone glabra – White Turtlehead: A clump-forming native with upright stems and white snapdragon-like flowers that thrive in rich, damp soils.
Carex stricta – Tussock Sedge: A graceful native sedge that forms mounding clumps in wet or consistently moist soils, perfect for shade gardens and rain gardens.