Doronicum orientale aka Oriental Leopard's Bane

Doronicum orientale is a perennial called Caucasian leopard's bane. It belongs to Asteraceae, the daisy family. Its native range spans southeastern Europe, Turkey, and the Caucasus. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. The name Doronicum caucasicum is a synonym for this species. It forms clumps and spreads slowly through rhizomes. These are stems that grow below the soil.

Garden plants reach about 0.3–1.6 feet (0.1–0.5 metres) tall. Their spread reaches about 1.6–3.3 feet (0.5–1 metre). They take two to five years to reach full size. Most leaves grow at the base of the plant. Their edges have shallow scallops, and their bases are heart-shaped. A few leaves also grow along the flower stems. The foliage is deciduous, rather than staying green year-round.

Slender stems carry single flower heads in mid to late spring. The heads are golden yellow and measure about one to two inches across. Their bright colour suits spring beds and flower borders. The RHS also lists this plant for cut flowers. It suggests cottage gardens, informal schemes, and wildlife gardens as planting settings. Coastal gardens are another listed use. Remove spent flower heads to encourage a second round of blooms.

Choose partial shade and shelter for this plant. North-, east-, and west-facing sites fit the RHS guidance. The soil should hold moisture but let excess water drain away. Use reasonably fertile soil, with sandy soil the preferred choice. Loam also falls within its listed soil types. Acid and neutral soils both suit it. The RHS gives it a UK hardiness rating of H5. This covers winter lows near 5–14°F (−15 to −10°C). Divide plants in early autumn to make new clumps. Another option is spring sowing in containers within a cold frame.

Most pests cause few problems, according to the RHS. Leaf and bud eelworm can still cause trouble. Watch for leaf spot, root rot, and powdery mildew. These are the diseases listed for this species. The supplied sources give no details about its fruit. They also provide no evidence of edible parts or medicinal use. Nor do they establish whether it is safe for people or pets.