Ligularia stenocephala ‘Bottle Rocket’
Overview
Uses: Shade gardens, pond margins, woodland borders, rain gardens, and bold focal plantings.
Benefits: Upright spikes of golden-yellow flowers rise above large, serrated foliage. Compact for its class, this selection delivers strong vertical interest while thriving in consistently moist conditions.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
Sun: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Upright, Clumping — vertical flower spikes above bold foliage.
Bloom Color: Golden Yellow
Foliage Color: Dark Green
Mature Height: 28–40"
Mature Width: 24–36"
Bloom Season: Mid to Late Summer
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
Bold foliage topped with vertical spikes of summer gold.
Ligularia stenocephala ‘Bottle Rocket’ is valued for its dramatic leaves and upright flower spikes that bring height and structure to shaded landscapes. The dense clump of large, toothed foliage creates a strong architectural presence even before blooms appear.
In mid to late summer, narrow spikes of golden-yellow flowers rise above the foliage, providing contrast and seasonal color. Its more compact habit makes it easier to incorporate into smaller gardens compared to taller ligularia varieties.
Best suited to consistently moist soils, it performs especially well near water features or in rain gardens where many other perennials struggle.
Care
Ligularia ‘Bottle Rocket’ Care
Plant in partial to full shade. Protection from strong afternoon sun helps prevent leaf scorch.
Prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil. Regular watering is important, especially during dry periods, as foliage may wilt in prolonged heat or drought.
Apply a
slow release fertilizer
in spring to support healthy growth and flowering.
Remove spent flower stalks after blooming if desired. Cut back foliage in late fall or early spring as new growth begins.
Container Growing: Can be grown in large containers if soil moisture is monitored carefully. Use rich potting soil with good drainage. Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Ligularia ‘Bottle Rocket’ for Sale Online?
Plants ship in a greenhouse-grade grow pot at an actively growing stage. Size at shipment varies seasonally. For current sizing details, please
contact us
.
How Large Does Ligularia ‘Bottle Rocket’ Grow?
At maturity, this perennial typically reaches 28–40 inches tall and spreads 24–36 inches wide, forming a substantial clump in shaded garden beds.
Additional Information
What is the botanical name of Ligularia ‘Bottle Rocket’?
The botanical name is Ligularia stenocephala ‘Bottle Rocket’.
What are some common names for this plant?
This plant is commonly referred to simply as Ligularia.
Is ‘Bottle Rocket’ suitable for wet soils?
Yes. It performs especially well in consistently moist conditions and near pond margins. Explore additional moisture-loving selections in our
Perennials and
Native Plants of North America collections.
How does ‘Bottle Rocket’ compare to other Ligularia varieties?
This selection is valued for its more compact size and strong upright flower spikes, making it easier to incorporate into smaller shade gardens while still delivering bold foliage impact.
