Doronicum
Contents
Description
Doronicum, also known as leopard’s bane, is a genus of perennial plants in the Asteraceae family. These plants are native to Europe and Asia, and they are known for their yellow daisy-like flowers that bloom in the spring. Doronicum plants can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and they have dark green, toothed leaves that grow in a basal rosette. These plants are commonly grown in gardens and landscapes for their attractive flowers and foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Doronicum |
Appearance
Doronicum plants have dark green, toothed leaves that grow in a basal rosette. The leaves are hairy and can grow up to 8 inches long. The flowers are yellow and daisy-like, with a diameter of 2-3 inches. They bloom in the spring and can last for several weeks. Doronicum plants can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and they have a bushy habit.
Care Guide
Doronicum plants are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for Doronicum plants:- Water: Doronicum plants prefer moist, well-draining soil. Water them regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Fertilize Doronicum plants in the spring with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.- Soil: Doronicum plants prefer rich, well-draining soil. They can tolerate a range of soil types, but they don’t like heavy clay soil.- Sunlight: Doronicum plants prefer partial shade to full sun. They can tolerate some shade, but they won’t flower as well.- Hardiness Zones: Doronicum plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Doronicum plants are relatively pest and disease-free, but they can be susceptible to a few common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that affect Doronicum plants:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating to appear on the leaves. It’s caused by high humidity and poor air circulation. Treat powdery mildew with a fungicide.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and drop off. Treat spider mites with insecticidal soap.- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers. Use a slug and snail bait to control them.
Habitat
Doronicum plants are native to Europe and Asia, where they grow in meadows, woodlands, and along stream banks. They prefer moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. Doronicum plants are commonly grown in gardens and landscapes for their attractive flowers and foliage.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Doronicum plants?
A: Doronicum plants prefer moist, well-draining soil. Water them regularly, especially during dry spells.
Q: What kind of soil do Doronicum plants prefer?
A: Doronicum plants prefer rich, well-draining soil. They can tolerate a range of soil types, but they don’t like heavy clay soil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Doronicum plants?
A: Doronicum plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Q: How tall do Doronicum plants grow?
A: Doronicum plants can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Related Plants
– Arnica- Calendula- Echinacea- Rudbeckia
References
– “Doronicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=242063.- “Doronicum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/5014/doronicum/details.
