Ligularia sibirica aka Siberian Ligularia

Ligularia sibirica grows in clumps and lives for many years. It belongs to Asteraceae, the daisy family. Gardeners call it Siberian ligularia or leopard plant. Its native range starts in central France. It crosses eastern and southeastern Europe. It reaches the Russian Far East and northern China. Wild plants grow in swamps, damp meadows, and fens. They also grow beside streams. The species lives in subalpine or subarctic climates too. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

Garden clumps reach about 1–4 feet [0.3–1.22 metres] tall. Sources give different figures for their spread. The RHS gives about 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. Missouri Botanical Garden lists 3 feet [0.91 metres]. Its text also describes broader clumps. Strong rhizomes, or underground stems, form basal rosettes. These groups of broad leaves grow at the plant's base. Leaf shapes range from oval to heart-shaped. Some are kidney-shaped with heart-shaped bases. The plant sheds its leaves each year. Upright stems rise above the leafy clump.

Yellow flower heads form tall groups at the stem tips. These clusters look like spikes. The plant blooms from July to September. Each head holds small fertile florets, or tiny flowers. It also has narrow yellow ray florets. Bracts, the small leaves beneath each head, may look reddish-purple. Flowers open from the bottom of each cluster upward. The bright blooms add value to summer borders. The broad leaves also help shape the plant's garden form.

Grow it in deep, moist soil with a fair nutrient level. It accepts clay, loam, or sand. The soil can be acidic, neutral, or alkaline. Full sun or part shade suits it with steady moisture. It also copes with heavy shade and wet ground. Do not let the soil dry out. Water deeply and often in hot summers. Cool summers suit it best. Hot, humid weather can limit growth. Leaves may wilt in heat despite enough water. Bright sun and wind can cause wilting too. A site safe from strong winds helps. Sources rate it USDA zones 3–8 and UK hardiness H5.

Plant groups beside ponds or streams, or in wet woodland gardens. It also suits rain gardens and moist, shaded borders. Slugs and snails can cause serious leaf damage. The RHS reports few disease problems. It needs no routine pruning. Remove dead stems in winter or early spring, though. Divide clumps in spring or after they bloom. The supplied sources do not establish food uses. Nor do they establish whether the plant is toxic.