Ligularia is a perennial plant known for its bold, kidney-shaped leaves and tall spikes of bright yellow flowers. These hardy plants thrive in damp, shady areas, making them a great choice for adding both texture and colour to a moist garden setting. Ligularia's striking appearance and adaptability to shade make it a versatile and eye-catching addition to any landscape.
Planting Calendar
Plant Ligularia from spring through to autumn.
Harvest In
Ligularia flower in summer.
In summer, clusters of bright orange-yellow daisy like flowers that sit well above its leaves.
Prepare
Ligularia or Tractor Seat as it is commonly known as, describes it leaves perfectly. Its colossal leaves that are held in mid air like floating lily pads, bear a striking resemblance to the old school classic tractor seat, generously sized and contoured for the utmost comfort, akin to what a typical New Zealand farmer might appreciate.
Position
Ligularia do best when planted in dappled to partial shade.
Soil
When planted into the ground Ligularia prefer a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil.
Plant
When planting into the ground, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Ligularia like moist soil. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods.
Feeding
For strong healthy roots and plants, apply monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health.
Protecting
Protect from those hungry slugs and snails by applying pet friendly Quash around your plants. Be sure to re-apply after rain. Protect from frost by covering with frost cloth.
Mulching
Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk or base of the plant) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Mulching helps to reduce weeds as well as aiding the soil to lock moisture in the ground.
Spraying
Generally pest free, spraying should not be needed.
Beginner Tip
Should your plant get hit by frost and suffer damage to the leaves, don't be tempted to remove them until all chances of frosts have passed. The damaged leaves will help protect the plant from any other frosts. Remove the damaged leaves in spring, then new ones will sprout looking nice and fresh.
Expert Tip
In brighter conditions the leaves can become thick and leathery, while in deeper shade the leaves grow even larger and thinner.
Tip
Ligularia will often grow out towards the brightest light in fully shaded areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best location to plant Ligularia?
Ligularia thrives in partially shaded areas with rich, well-drained soil. It can tolerate full sun if kept consistently moist.
How often should I water my Ligularia?
Ligularia like moist soil. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods.
When is the best time to plant Ligularia?
The best time to plant Ligularia is in the cooler months of autumn or early spring, allowing it to establish roots before the hotter summer months.
Do I need to fertilise Ligularia?
For strong healthy roots and plants, apply monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health.
What pests should I watch out for with Ligularia?
Keep an eye out for slugs and snails, which can damage the foliage. Use organic slug pellets or traps to manage these pests.