Great Leopard's-bane (Doronicum pardalianches)

Great Leopard's-bane

Doronicum pardalianches

Bright yellow blooms light up early spring, a cheerful woodland groundcover. Herbaceous perennial; common name: Great Leopard's-bane.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Partial shade to full sun; prefers dappled woodland shade, avoid intense midday sun in hot temperate regions
💧
Watering Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
🌡️
Temperature Hardy to -15°C; thrives in cool temperate conditions, avoid prolonged temperatures above 28°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal leaves are large, heart-shaped, and coarsely toothed; stem leaves are smaller, clasping the erect stems
  • Flower: Daisy-like composite yellow flower heads, 5–7 cm in diameter, borne on branching upper stems
  • Stem: Erect, hairy green stems with smooth upper sections near flower heads
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist, water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry

Fertilization

Light application of balanced organic feed once monthly. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can reduce flower production

Composted banana peel tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water for root drench; do not use raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower heads promptly to maintain a tidy appearance
  • Cut back entire foliage to ground level after flowering to encourage fresh basal growth
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no known toxic compounds present

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental groundcover for woodland gardens; cut flower for spring bouquets