Ligularia Dentata Little Golden Ray - Bigleaf Ligularia

Ligularia Dentata Little Golden Ray is an eye-catching perennial that is best known for its vibrant, golden yellow foliage and daisy-like flowers. This variety of leopard plant blooms profusely from late summer to early fall, adding a unique statement piece to any garden space.

Plant Characteristics

• Height: 90–100 cm
• Spread: 40-60 cm
• Flower color: Orange/yellow ray petals with brown centres
• Flowering period: Late summer to early fall
• Foliage : Soft, golden yellow leaves with greenish undersides
• Sunlight requirements : Shade or partial shade
• Soil requirements : Well drained, slightly acidic soil with average fertility
• Hardiness : Zones 4 - 1

Uses

Ligularia Dentata Little Golden Ray is an excellent choice for bringing a bold punch of color into any garden space . Here are some ideas on how you can use this plant in your garden :

• Borders & edging : The bushy growth habit of this variety of leopard plant makes it ideal for creating borders and edging in your landscape.

• Mass planting & ground covers : Planting in large groups or drifts can create a show stopping swath of vibrant golds and yellows that will bring joy to your garden all season long. When planted together with other tall varieties , it also works perfectly as a ground cover.

• Garden containers : The compact size of 'Little Golden Ray' makes it perfect for container gardens and can add beauty to balconies, patios or porches.

  
  

• Cutting gardens : This plant is an excellent choice for cutting gardens due to its striking orange/yellow blooms which make beautiful bouquets when cut fresh from the garden. 

Companion Plants

Here are three companion plants that look good with Ligularia Dentata Little Golden Ray:

1. Foamflower ( Tiarella cordifolia )​ ​​​​​​: Foamflower has small white star shaped flowers which bloom profusely during mid spring until the first frost . It requires similar growing conditions as leopard plants , making it another great companion plant . The contrasting colors between foamflowers’ creamy whites hues and ‘Little Golden Rays’ warm gold tones provide great visual interest in your garden !

2. Umbrella Fern ( Cystopteris bulbifera )​ ​​​​​​: Umbrella Fern has bright light green fronds which persist throughout the year . Like leopard plants most umbrella ferns prefer well drained soils so they make great companions! The delicate greens blended with vivid gold tones from 'Little Golden Rays's blooms provide an attractive contrast within the bed or border.

3. Foxglove ( Digitalis purpurea )​ ​​​​​​: Foxglove has long spires of pink, white , purple or yellow bell shaped flowers which bloom from late spring until early summer . It needs similar growing conditions as leopard plants , making it another excellent companion plant . When planted side by side , the vibrant pinks/purples shades set off the brilliant gold tones of 'Little Golden Rays' blooms brilliantly!

   
   

In summary , Ligularia Dentata Little Golden Ray is an excellent choice for bringing vibrancy and life into any shaded area throughout late summer until early fall . When planted along complementary companion plants such as Foamflower, Umbrella Fern, and Foxglove, it will truly shine!