Ligularia dentata ‘Midnight Lady’ seeds -(Leopard Plant)

$5.50

This plant has handsome purple black leaves and is grown mainly for its foliage although the flowers are also attractive and are good for cutting.

Out of stock

Description

This is a very handsome specimen perennial which needs a moist location.It will grow in partial shade quite well. It is sometimes called elephant ears. It produces a mound of very dark shining leaves which are a black purple in colour. The flowers appear in summer onto early autumn rising well above the foliage. They are daisy-like and bright golden-orange in colour. They and the leaves pick well .

This plant is very elegant in a border or by the water. It can also be grown in a large container and makes an unusual specimen .

As for most plants which have luscious foliage , slugs and snails can be a problem.

You can divide the plant in spring every 3 -4  years. In our warmer areas  give the plant at least afternoon shade.

Sowing advice

Sow indoors in late winter and spring. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Do not cover seed but press gently into the soil. Place in a propagator or cover with clear glass or plastic to maintain humidity. Place somewhere bright. Ideal temp. 21-24°C. Germination takes 14-42 days approx. and can be irregular. Once germination occurs ensure the plant has free moving air  . Reduce temp. to 15°C and grow on. Transplant individually to 8cm pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out in summer.

Additional information

Classification

Hardy Perennial

Common Name

elephant ears, Leopard Plant

Family

Asteraceae, Compositae

Maximum Height

70 cm

Number of seeds in packet

approx 20