{"title":"Tractor Seat Plants and Ligularia","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe tractor seat plant earns its name from huge, glossy, kidney shaped leaves held on tall stalks, each one the size and shape of an old tractor seat. It is one of the most useful foliage plants for shade, filling the ground under trees and beside paths with a bold, tropical look, and it sends up yellow daisy flowers as a bonus. The related leopard plants offer darker leaves and stronger flowers. Choose by leaf colour, climate and how much moisture you can give.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to choose a tractor seat plant\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/products\/tractors-seat-plant-ligularia-reniformis\"\u003eTractor's Seat Plant\u003c\/a\u003e is the one most people are after: an evergreen clump about a metre high and wide, with thick, shiny, deep green leaves that can pass 30 centimetres across. Botanists now place it in Farfugium, so you will also see the same plant listed as the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/tractor-seat-plant-farfugium-japonicum-var-giganteum\"\u003eTractor Seat Plant\u003c\/a\u003e under the name Farfugium japonicum var. giganteum. Both names refer to the giant, glossy leaved form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe leopard plants are forms of Ligularia dentata, a perennial from cooler parts of Asia. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/britt-marie-crawford-leopard-plant-ligularia-dentata-britt-marie-crawford\"\u003eBritt Marie Crawford Leopard Plant\u003c\/a\u003e is grown for dark, chocolate purple leaves and orange yellow daisies in summer. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/leopard-plant-little-golden-ray-ligularia-dentata-little-golden-ray\"\u003eLeopard Plant Little Golden Ray\u003c\/a\u003e and the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/leopard-plant-ligularia-pandora\"\u003ePandora Leopard Plant\u003c\/a\u003e are further selections of the same group. These suit cool and mild temperate gardens and die back to the ground in winter before returning in spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere tractor seat plants grow\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eShade and moisture are the two requirements. The tractor seat plant grows from the subtropics to cool temperate gardens in full shade, dappled light or morning sun. Hot afternoon sun makes the leaves wilt and scorch, even in damp soil. It is ideal under palms and tree ferns, on the south side of a house, beside a pond or in a shaded courtyard pot. Frost can burn the foliage, though the plant usually reshoots from the base. The leopard plants prefer cooler summers and struggle in humid tropical heat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor plants to grow alongside, see our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-full-shade\"\u003eplants for full shade\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ferns-for-shady-areas\"\u003eferns for shady areas\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/tropical-plants\"\u003etropical plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting and spacing\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDig compost through the soil so it holds moisture without becoming waterlogged. Set plants at the level they grew in the pot and space them 60 to 80 centimetres apart for a continuous mass of leaves, or about a metre apart if you want each clump to read on its own. Along a path, plant far enough back that the leaves are not trodden on as the clump widens. Mulch well to keep the roots cool. In pots, choose a wide container and a quality potting mix, and expect to water often in summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCare basics\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eKeep the soil evenly moist, especially through hot weather. The big leaves lose water quickly and will droop on a hot afternoon, usually recovering by evening, but repeated wilting browns the edges. Feed in spring with a slow release fertiliser and top up the mulch. Snails and slugs are the main pest, as they rasp holes in the new leaves: check after rain and at night, and protect young plants. Cut off tattered or yellowing leaves at the base, and remove the flower stems once the daisies finish. Clumps can be lifted and divided in early spring when they become crowded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDo tractor seat plants need full shade?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey are happiest in shade or dappled light. Gentle morning sun is fine, but afternoon sun scorches the leaves in most parts of Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big do tractor seat plants grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout a metre high and a metre wide, with flower stems rising a little above the foliage. The clump widens slowly over the years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy are there holes in the leaves of my tractor seat plant?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlmost always snails or slugs. Look for them after dark, clear away debris where they shelter and protect new growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow a tractor seat plant in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It makes a striking container plant for a shaded patio, as long as the pot is large and the mix is never allowed to dry out.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"tractors-seat-plant-ligularia-reniformis","title":"Tractor's Seat Plant - Ligularia reniformis","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Tractor's Seat Plant (\u003cem\u003eLigularia reniformis\u003c\/em\u003e) earns its place on leaf size alone. Glossy, kidney shaped leaves the width of a dinner plate build a clump about 0.8m high and 1.2m across, and slim spikes of yellow daisy flowers lift to around 1.2m through the warmer months. It is a shade and moisture plant, one of the few genuinely bold foliage choices for the damp, dim corner most gardens have.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLeaves that read from across the garden.\u003c\/strong\u003e Each one is large, round and high gloss, so a single clump does the work of a much bigger shrub.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIt wants the wet spot.\u003c\/strong\u003e Wet feet tolerant, so ground that stays damp after rain is an advantage rather than a problem to solve.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrost hardy, unlike most big leaf plants.\u003c\/strong\u003e Bold foliage usually means tender. This one holds up in cool temperate gardens as well as subtropical ones.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eYellow flowers above the foliage.\u003c\/strong\u003e Tall daisy spikes rise clear of the leaves through the warm months, and need no more than cutting off at the base afterwards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMassed in shaded beds.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 1m apart. At that spacing the leaves overlap into a continuous low canopy within two seasons, and the soil underneath stays cool and weed free.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePond edges and drainage lines.\u003c\/strong\u003e Ground that stays damp is where this plant looks its best, which is unusual enough to be worth planning around.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePots and shaded courtyards.\u003c\/strong\u003e One plant fills a 400mm pot and holds its shape for years, provided the watering keeps up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Tractor's Seat Plant in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full shade to part shade. Morning sun is fine, hot afternoon sun scorches the leaf margins for the rest of the season. It suits subtropical, warm temperate and cool temperate gardens, and frost is no problem for an established clump. Dry inland heat is, so in arid districts keep it in a sheltered courtyard with reliable irrigation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich and moisture holding. Dig compost through the bed before planting, then mulch 50mm deep and keep it clear of the crown. Heavy ground that other plants resent is what this one prefers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater.\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the soil damp, particularly through the first summer. If it dries right out the plant collapses flat, and while a deep soak usually revives it within hours, repeated wilting costs you leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeeding and tidying.\u003c\/strong\u003e A complete slow release fertiliser in early spring is enough. Remove leaves as they yellow, and bait for snails around fresh spring shoots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is grown in tube stock and in packs of six 200mm plants. Tubes are young single crown plants and the economical way to fill a long shaded bed, though allow a season for them to size up. The 200mm pack covers roughly six square metres at 1m spacing and already carries several full sized leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants travel upright and are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Expect some leaf damage in transit on foliage this large. It is cosmetic, and fresh leaves push through within four to six weeks in the growing season. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/shade-gardening-with-brisbane-plant-nursery-guide\"\u003eHow to plan a shade garden in Australia\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-partial-shade\"\u003eBrowse more plants for partial shade\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/the-best-ground-cover-plants-for-shade\"\u003eThe best groundcovers for shaded beds\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-pots\"\u003ePlants that thrive in containers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it grow in full sun?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot well. In open sun the leaf edges scorch and the clump stays small and hard looking. Give it shade through the hottest part of the day for full leaf size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many plants do I need?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne per square metre. At 1m spacing the leaves close over the soil in about two seasons, so a pack of six covers a bed roughly 2m by 3m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy do the leaves flop on hot days?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is telling you it is thirsty. Large soft leaves lose water faster than the roots can replace it, so a plant on the dry side wilts by afternoon. Water deeply and it lifts again, usually the same day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":50115550511423,"sku":"LIG-REN-tube","price":22.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false},{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10) (Backorder)","offer_id":55100415344959,"sku":"LIG-REN-140MM-P10","price":435.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"200mm (Pack of 6)","offer_id":54140139962687,"sku":"LIG-REN-200MM-P6","price":348.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/Tractors-Seat-Plant-Ligularia-reniformis.png?v=1794661995"},{"product_id":"leopard-plant-ligularia-pandora","title":"Leopard Plant - Ligularia ‘Pandora’","description":"\u003cp\u003eLeopard Plant (\u003cem\u003eLigularia dentata\u003c\/em\u003e 'Pandora') is grown for its leaves, not its flowers. It forms a tight mound about 50cm tall and 50cm across, built from almost circular leaves in deep bronze purple that look lacquered after rain. Orange and yellow daisy flowers follow in late summer, but the foliage is the reason to buy it, and few plants bring that contrast to a damp, shaded bed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDark foliage that lifts a shady bed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Rounded bronze purple leaves give shade planting the contrast that green on green schemes lack.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompact and tidy.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 50cm by 50cm it fits the front of a border or a pot without dominating.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIt likes wet feet.\u003c\/strong\u003e Damp low spots and pond edges that rot other perennials are where this one performs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrost hardy and humidity tolerant.\u003c\/strong\u003e It handles cold southern winters and muggy summers without losing its shape.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLate season flowers.\u003c\/strong\u003e The orange and yellow heads bring bees and butterflies in as the rest of the garden winds down.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShaded borders and edging.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 40cm apart along the front of a bed under trees or on the south side of a fence. At that spacing the leaves overlap into a continuous dark band.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMass planting in damp ground.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use the same 40cm spacing through a low spot or a pond surround. Ground that stays moist is an advantage here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePots and feature planting.\u003c\/strong\u003e One clump in a wide glazed pot works hard in a shaded courtyard, provided the mix stays moist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Leopard Plant in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Partial shade, ideally morning sun with afternoon protection. This is a cool temperate and warm temperate plant. It is not suited to hot arid inland gardens or the humid tropics, where the leaves scorch and the crown struggles. Be realistic: it wants a cool, sheltered, moist position, not an open sunny bed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich, heavy and moisture retentive. Work compost or aged manure through the bed before planting and mulch 50mm deep to keep the root zone cool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e This is a high water plant. Keep the soil damp at all times, especially through the first two summers. A liquid feed monthly from spring to late summer keeps the leaf colour deep.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Remove spent flower stems at the base and pull off any scorched or chewed leaves. Cut the whole clump back if it tires in late winter, and divide congested plants every three or four years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is grown in a single size, sold as tube stock, and currently supplied on backorder rather than off the shelf. A tube is a young plant with a handful of leaves and a small crown. It is not a full mound on day one, and it takes a growing season to look like the photograph.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTubes are compact and travel well. Keep the water up after planting and expect new leaves within three to four weeks in warm weather. Delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95, and every plant carries our 30 day healthy plant guarantee. Worth knowing: Ligularia foliage contains alkaloids, so this is not one for a garden where a dog or cat grazes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/troubleshooting-waterlogged-gardens-essential-tips\"\u003eWhat to plant in wet and waterlogged ground\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-partial-shade\"\u003eBrowse plants for partial shade\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/shade-gardening-with-brisbane-plant-nursery-guide\"\u003eChoosing plants for a full shade area\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-full-shade\"\u003eShop the full shade range\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy does it wilt in the middle of the day?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLarge soft leaves lose water faster than the roots can replace it, so midday flagging is common even when the soil is damp. If it recovers by evening the plant is fine. If it stays limp overnight, water deeply and move it somewhere shadier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it safe for pets?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. The foliage contains alkaloids that can upset cats and dogs if eaten, so choose something else if you have a pet that chews plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart should I plant it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eForty centimetres apart. Each clump reaches about 50cm across, so at that distance the leaves just meet and the soil below stays shaded and cool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube","offer_id":51643528380735,"sku":"LIG-PAN-tube","price":22.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10) (Backorder)","offer_id":55100483535167,"sku":"LIG-PAN-140MM-P10","price":246.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"200mm (Pack of 6) (Backorder)","offer_id":55100483502399,"sku":"LIG-PAN-200MM-P6","price":322.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/Leopard-Plant-Ligularia-Pandora.png?v=1794662794"},{"product_id":"leopard-plant-little-golden-ray-ligularia-dentata-little-golden-ray","title":"Leopard Plant Little Golden Ray - Ligularia dentata 'Little Golden Ray'","description":"\u003cp\u003eLeopard Plant 'Little Golden Ray' (\u003cem\u003eLigularia dentata\u003c\/em\u003e 'Little Golden Ray') is a dwarf perennial for the damp, shaded parts of the garden that defeat most plants. It makes a rounded clump about 60cm each way of large, leathery, dark leaves, then lifts golden yellow and orange daisy flowers above them in summer. Where light is low and the ground stays damp, it is one of the few plants that looks better for it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBold foliage in shade.\u003c\/strong\u003e Broad rounded leaves give weight to a shaded bed where most shade plants are fine and ferny.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWet feet are welcome.\u003c\/strong\u003e It tolerates soil that stays moist, so pond edges, downpipe beds and low spots all suit it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBright summer flowers.\u003c\/strong\u003e Golden yellow to orange daisies on upright stems, held clear of the leaves and busy with bees.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompact enough for small gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e A dwarf selection, so it fits a courtyard bed or a pot rather than swallowing them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShaded borders and edging.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 50cm apart along a shaded path or the front of a damp bed. At that spacing the leaves overlap slightly and read as one continuous band of foliage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMass planting in moist shade.\u003c\/strong\u003e Under trees, beside a pond or in a bed that collects runoff, a drift at 50cm spacing covers ground that would otherwise stay bare.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePots and small gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e A 300mm or larger pot works, provided you are realistic about watering, because a potted leopard plant dries out fast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Leopard Plant in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Part shade to full shade, with morning sun at most. This is a cool temperate and warm temperate plant, frost hardy in cold southern gardens and tolerant of humidity, but no use in hot dry inland sun or tropical heat. In warmer gardens, use the coolest corner you have.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich, heavy and moisture retentive is ideal. Dig compost through before planting and mulch 50mm deep to hold water where the roots sit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e This is a high water plant and the one thing it will not forgive is drying out. It wilts dramatically, and while it usually recovers after a soak, repeated wilting sets it back. Water two or three times a week in summer heat and feed with a complete slow release fertiliser in early spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Cut spent flower stems at the base once the display finishes and remove yellowing leaves as they appear. Lift and divide congested clumps every three or four years in early spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is sold as tube stock and in 200mm pots in packs of six. Tubes carry two or three leaves on a good root system and take a full season to build the clump. The 200mm plants are established and give an immediate result, which makes the pack of six the practical choice for a border.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeaves can look tired after transit and may need trimming off. Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Water on arrival and again the day you plant. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowse other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-full-shade\"\u003eplants for full shade\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRead our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/shade-gardening-with-brisbane-plant-nursery-guide\"\u003eguide to gardening in shade\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompare companions in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/high-water\"\u003eplants that like plenty of water\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/troubleshooting-waterlogged-gardens-essential-tips\"\u003eWorking with a waterlogged garden bed\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy does it wilt every afternoon?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlmost always dryness at the roots, sometimes too much direct sun. Give it a deep soak, move it into deeper shade if you can, and mulch to hold moisture. Plants that wilt daily will not thrive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow it in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, in a 300mm or larger pot in shade, with quality mix and consistent watering. Pots dry much faster than garden beds, so this suits a gardener who waters regularly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes it die back in winter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn cold gardens the foliage tires and the clump looks sparse, then reshoots strongly in spring. In milder gardens it usually holds its leaves right through.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":54741406482751,"sku":"LIG-DEN-LITGOL-tube","price":17.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false},{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10)","offer_id":55100591178047,"sku":"LIG-DEN-LITGOL-140MM-P10","price":212.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"200mm (Pack of 6) (Backorder)","offer_id":54741406515519,"sku":"LIG-DEN-LITGOL-200MM-P6","price":322.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/leopard-plant-little-golden-ray-ligularia-dentata-little-golden-ray-5fed59.jpg?v=1785941070"},{"product_id":"britt-marie-crawford-leopard-plant-ligularia-dentata-britt-marie-crawford","title":"Britt Marie Crawford Leopard Plant - Ligularia dentata 'Britt Marie Crawford'","description":"\u003cp\u003eBritt Marie Crawford Leopard Plant (\u003cem\u003eLigularia dentata\u003c\/em\u003e 'Britt Marie Crawford') is a herbaceous perennial that grows 50cm to 1m tall and wide, with broad rounded leaves in deep bronze-black and golden daisy flowers held clear of the foliage in summer and autumn. It is one of the few dramatic foliage plants that enjoys wet, heavy soil, so it is the answer for the damp corner where everything else sulks. It also holds the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoliage that stands out.\u003c\/strong\u003e Rounded leaves in a dark bronze-black set off almost any green or silver planting around them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGolden daisies for months.\u003c\/strong\u003e Starry golden flowers rise clear of the leaves from summer into autumn, and bees visit them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHappy in wet and heavy soil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Seasonally wet, moist or clay soil that rots many perennials suits it well.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrost hardy.\u003c\/strong\u003e It copes with frost, so it can be planted in cool gardens as well as mild ones.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWorks in a big pot too.\u003c\/strong\u003e Where there is no damp patch, a large pot of moist mix keeps it content.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBog gardens and creekside planting.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant beside a dam, creek or pond edge, or in the low spot where water collects, about 70cm apart. The leaves fill the gap quickly and shade the soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMixed flower borders.\u003c\/strong\u003e Pair the dark leaves with pale or yellow flowers, silver foliage and ferns, and give each plant 70cm of room to mature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnderplanting and pots.\u003c\/strong\u003e In part shade it makes a bold underplanting beneath trees, and in a large container it brings height and colour to a courtyard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Britt Marie Crawford Leopard Plant in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun to part shade. In hot summers part shade protects the leaves from scorching, while in cooler southern gardens it takes more sun. It is frost hardy and suits subtropical, warm temperate and cool temperate climates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e It likes seasonally wet or moist soil and copes with heavy clay, which is unusual for a perennial. On light sandy ground, dig in plenty of compost to hold moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mulch and water regularly for the first 12 weeks until it is established, and keep the soil moist through summer, because dry ground makes the big leaves flop. Fertilise once a year with a slow release fertiliser for lush, healthy growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e In colder gardens the foliage can die back over winter, and the plant reshoots in spring, so tidy away the old leaves then. Watch for snails and slugs, which find young leaves of this plant hard to resist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell Britt Marie Crawford Leopard Plant as tube stock only: a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Plant out soon after arrival, water in well and keep the ground damp through the first summer. Expect a modest clump in the first year, filling out over the following seasons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTube stock is supplied by our grower, and supply comes and goes. A tube on backorder simply means the grower has none today, so press the notify button on the page and we will email you the day it is back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-partial-shade\"\u003ePlants for partial shade\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-pots\"\u003ePlants that grow well in pots\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/perennial-plants-for-a-cottage-garden\"\u003ePerennial plants for a cottage garden\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/shade-gardening-with-brisbane-plant-nursery-guide\"\u003eShade gardening in Australia: what to plant where\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it grow in clay that stays wet?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, that is where it does best. Just keep it from drying out in summer, because wilting is its main complaint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes it lose its leaves in winter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a herbaceous perennial, so in cold gardens the foliage can die back and return in spring. Frost does not kill the plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it safe for pets?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe do not list it as pet safe. Like several members of the daisy family, it is best kept away from animals and children that chew plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":67790854488383,"sku":"LIG-DEN-BRITTM-tube","price":22.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/britt-marie-crawford-leopard-plant-ligularia-dentata-britt-marie-crawford.jpg?v=1792209498"},{"product_id":"tractor-seat-plant-farfugium-japonicum-var-giganteum","title":"Tractor Seat Plant - Farfugium japonicum var. giganteum","description":"\u003cp\u003eTractor Seat Plant (\u003cem\u003eFarfugium japonicum\u003c\/em\u003e var. \u003cem\u003egiganteum\u003c\/em\u003e) is a bold foliage perennial that forms a fountain of glossy, deep green, kidney-shaped leaves, 1m to 1.5m tall and wide. In summer it sends up bright golden daisy flowers above the leaves. It is the plant for a shaded subtropical garden, a pond edge or a well lit patio that wants big, lush foliage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHuge, glossy leaves.\u003c\/strong\u003e Each deep green, kidney-shaped leaf is far bigger than on the classic tractor seat plant, which gives shady corners real presence.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGolden flowers in summer.\u003c\/strong\u003e Bright yellow daisies rise above the foliage through the summer months, and bees and butterflies visit them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEvergreen in the warm, tidy in the cold.\u003c\/strong\u003e It keeps its leaves in tropical and subtropical gardens and dies back in cooler regions, returning in spring.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLoves damp ground.\u003c\/strong\u003e It is happy in seasonally wet or moist soil, so pond edges and damp spots suit it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGood in pots.\u003c\/strong\u003e A large container on a well lit, protected patio shows off the leaves at eye level.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShaded borders and undergrowth.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant under trees or along a shaded wall, about 1m apart, so the big leaves overlap into a lush layer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDamp spots and pond edges.\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich, moist ground beside water, or a low area where rain collects, suits it well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePatios and containers.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use a large pot of moisture-holding mix in a bright, protected position. A potting mix rich in peat moss or humus is ideal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Tractor Seat Plant in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Part shade is the sweet spot, bright but out of hot afternoon sun, which scorches the big leaves. It also grows in shade where the light is good, and in full sun in milder gardens if the soil never dries out. It is suited to warm climates, so it does best in tropical, subtropical and warm temperate gardens. Protect it from frost.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Free-draining soil rich in organic matter, kept moist. It copes with seasonally wet ground, so add compost at planting and mulch well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mulch and water regularly for the first 12 weeks until it is established, and keep it moist through summer. Fertilise once a year with a slow release fertiliser to encourage lush growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e No pruning is needed beyond removing tired leaves and spent flower stems. In cooler gardens, add extra mulch over the roots in winter to protect them, and expect the leaves to die back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell Tractor Seat Plant as tube stock only: a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Tube plants are small, so allow a season or two for the leaves to reach their full size. Plant out soon after arrival in a sheltered, bright spot, water well and keep the soil moist while the roots settle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. When the grower has none, the tube shows as on backorder on the page, and the notify button emails you the day it is back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-partial-shade\"\u003ePlants for partial shade\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/tropical-plants\"\u003eTropical plants for warm gardens\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-pots\"\u003ePlants for pots and containers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/shade-gardening-with-brisbane-plant-nursery-guide\"\u003eShade gardening in Australia: what to plant where\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow much sun can it take?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBright part shade suits it best. It tolerates full sun in milder gardens when the soil stays moist, but hot afternoon sun scorches the leaves, so give it shelter in warm regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it survive winter in a cool climate?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt dies back in cooler regions and shoots again in spring, but it needs protection from frost. Mulch the roots deeply and grow it in a sheltered, well lit spot. In frosty areas a pot that can move under cover is the safer choice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it safe for pets?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe do not list it as pet safe. It is best kept away from animals and children that chew plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":67790854619455,"sku":"FAR-JAP-tube","price":22.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/tractor-seat-plant-farfugium-japonicum-var-giganteum.jpg?v=1792209502"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/collections\/Tractors-Seat-Plant-Ligularia-reniformis.jpg?v=1794666947","url":"https:\/\/nurserynearme.com.au\/collections\/tractor-seat-plants.oembed","provider":"Nursery Near Me","version":"1.0","type":"link"}