Austrian Leopard's Bane (Doronicum austriacum)

Austrian Leopard's Bane

Doronicum austriacum

Bright yellow daisy-like blooms bring cheerful spring warmth. Herbaceous perennial; common name: Austrian Leopard's Bane.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Partial to full sun; tolerates light dappled shade in hot summer climates to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -20°C; thrives in cool to temperate growing conditions with mild summer temperatures
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal leaves are heart-shaped, toothed, and long-stalked; stem leaves are smaller, lanceolate, and sessile
  • Flower: Daisy-like composite flower heads, 5–7 cm wide, with bright yellow ray florets surrounding a yellow central disc
  • Stem: Erect, hairy green stems with minimal branching near the top
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when the top 2 cm of soil dries out; maintain consistent moisture during flowering

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks during active growth. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote flower production rather than excessive foliage growth

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water, and apply as a root drench to avoid leaf burn
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower heads promptly to encourage prolonged blooming
  • Cut back faded foliage to ground level after flowering to tidy clumps and prevent pest harborage
  • Divide overcrowded clumps in early spring or autumn to maintain plant vigor
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No documented toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; attracts pollinators including bees and butterflies