Species Slender Leopardbane
yellow flowers with dark-yellow center, green leaves and light-green stems

Slender Leopardbane

Arnica gracilis

Also Known As - Smallhead Arnica,Tall Mountain Arnica
Slender Leopardbane (Arnica gracilis) is a hardy perennial native to the Pacific Northwest. It is a mesic species that grows well in moist, partially shady environments. The flowerheads consist of showy, bright yellow ray florets held atop slender, leafy stalks. The foliage of Slender Leopardbane is a smooth, light green color that is covered in fine hairs. It generally has a clumping growth habit and can reach mature heights of up to two feet. This plant is a great choice for naturalizing moist garden areas or as part of a wildflower meadow.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Slender Leopardbane prefers moist, well-draining soil, so it should be watered on a regular basis. Allow the soil to dry out a bit between waterings, but be careful not to let it become completely dry. Water deeply and evenly, giving the plant a good soaking at least once a week in the summer and once every 2 weeks in the winter. Water the potting mix only when the surface begins to feel slightly dry to the touch. An occasional misting can be beneficial in the summer months.

sunlight

Slender Leopardbane (Arnica gracilis) plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They should be in a location that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, with preferably 8 to 10 hours to ensure proper growth and flowering. Because Slender Leopardbane plants are native to the Pacific Northwest, partial shade or filtered sunlight is ideal during the high summer months when temperatures are warmer. Planting in part shade during the summer, and full sun during the fall and winter months will provide Slender Leopardbane plants with the best growth and flowering potential.

pruning

Slender Leopardbane (Arnica gracilis) should be pruned in late winter or early spring, when the plant is entering the new growing season. Pruning should be done lightly, removing only spent or dead flowers and stems. Stems can be cut back to a healthy bud or a branching point. If the plant is becoming too leggy, larger branches can also be lightly pruned. This should be done with sharp pruners, and all cuts should be at 45 degree angles.