The Rocket Ragwort

‘The Rocket’ is a tall, clump-forming leopard plant with strongly toothed, heart-shaped leaves and dense spikes of deep yellow flowers on dark stems. Its bold foliage and upright summer bloom make it useful beside water or at the back of a moist, sheltered border. ## Flowers and foliage The [RHS plant profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/86178/ligularia-the-rocket/details) describes the plant reaching roughly 1.5–2.5 m in height, with a spread of 0.5–1 m and summer flower racemes. The [Missouri Botanical Garden profile](https://plantfinder.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=261541) lists Zones 4–8, a 3–5-foot height, a 2–4-foot spread, and June-to-July bloom. These sources show some variation in mature size. ## Siting Provide rich soil that stays evenly moist and choose a sheltered position. Part shade helps in hot-summer regions; the plant can also grow in sunnier sites where soil moisture remains steady. Its substantial leaves may droop during heat or dry spells. ## Maintenance Water deeply during dry weather and do not let the root zone dry out. Remove old stems after flowering or as the foliage fades. Divide established clumps in spring if they outgrow their space.