Ligularia 'Midnight Lady' is a bold and dramatic perennial known for its near-black, deeply cut foliage and tall golden yellow flower spikes that bloom in mid to late summer. Its striking contrast in leaf and flower color makes it an outstanding focal point in moist, shaded garden beds and along streambanks. The dense foliage also helps suppress weeds and cool the soil beneath.
Height & Spread: 36 - 48 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Rich, moist soil with consistent moisture
Watering Needs: High; keep soil consistently moist, especially in heat
Deer Resistance: Rarely damaged by deer due to coarse leaves
Native Status
Ligularia 'Midnight Lady' is a cultivar derived from species native to Asia. Though not native to North America, it is valued for its unique form, coloration, and adaptability in shade gardens.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Its tall yellow flower spikes attract bumblebees and long tongued native bees during summer bloom.
Butterflies
- Draws butterflies such as Red Admirals and Great Spangled Fritillaries, which are attracted to the bright upright flowers in partial shade settings.
Birds
- Seed heads left standing in fall offer late season food for finches and other small songbirds.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports predatory insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps that feed on aphids and caterpillar pests.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Allow 24 - 36 in spacing to accommodate its wide foliage and upright bloom stalks in garden borders.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for moist woodland gardens, shaded rain gardens, and streamside plantings where its dark foliage and golden blooms can create contrast and vertical interest.
Companion Plants
- Rodgersia pinnata 'Chocolate Wings' - Bronze tinted foliage and creamy pink flowers echo the bold form and color contrast of Ligularia.
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Silver veined foliage and delicate blue spring flowers create a cooling palette with striking contrast.
- Ferns (Matteuccia struthiopteris) - Adds soft feathery green texture beneath the bold Ligularia canopy.
- Hosta 'Sum and Substance' - Large chartreuse foliage brightens shade areas and contrasts sharply with Ligularia’s dark leaves.
- Astilboides tabularis - Massive umbrella like leaves and white summer blooms add architectural interest alongside Ligularia.