Doronicum (Leopard’s Bane): Cheerful Spring Daisies for Dappled Shade

Spring’s Early Gold

Doronicum (door-ON-ih-kum) emerges early with heart-shaped, toothed leaves and bright yellow, daisy-like flowers on stems ranging from 6 inches to 4 feet. These rhizomatous perennials bloom alongside late tulips and then often disappear by midsummer, sometimes offering a second flush in fall.

Culture Checklist

• Light: Dappled shade; avoid hot afternoon sun.
• Moisture: Consistent—cannot tolerate drought. Water weekly if rainfall < 1 inch.
• Soil: Well-drained, moist, preferably sandy; neutral pH.
• Fertilizer: None first year; light balanced granular in early spring thereafter.
• Maintenance: Deadhead spring flowers to encourage fall rebloom. Divide when dormant.

Easy, non-invasive, and a perfect companion for spring bulbs and ferns.