Ligularia stenocephala The Rocket

The Rocket Leopard Plant

Ligularia stenocephala ‘The Rocket’ (Leopard Plant) is a bold, upright perennial with a strong vertical habit, featuring large, sharply serrated dark green leaves and tall spikes of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that rise well above the foliage in mid to late summer. This cultivar is valued for its dramatic height and architectural presence in shaded landscapes.

Type: Perennial
Mature Size: 24–36" W × 48–72" H
USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Form: Upright, clumping

Light: Part shade to full shade (tolerates some morning sun)
Soil / Water: Rich, moist, well-drained soils; moderate to high water, requires consistent moisture
Bloom Time / Length: Mid to late summer; moderate (3–4 weeks)

Wildlife: Bees, butterflies

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for background plantings in shade gardens, woodland borders, and near water features. Its tall flower spikes provide strong vertical contrast among broader-leaved shade plants. Ideal as a focal point or in mass plantings.

Care:
Keep soil consistently moist—plants may wilt quickly in heat or drought. Mulch to retain moisture and keep roots cool. Stake if needed in exposed sites. Protect from hot afternoon sun and drying winds for best performance.

Plant type

Perennial

Height

48-72"

Width

24-36''

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Late Summer, Mid Summer

Flower color

Yellow

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Border, Container, Mass Planting, Woodland Gardens

Shape

Clumping, Upright

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No