Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

japanese ligularia

Japanese ligularia is a striking perennial prized for its bold foliage and impressive, daisy-like yellow flowers. A favourite among New Zealand gardeners, this shade-loving plant brings year-round interest to damp garden beds, pond edges, and shaded borders. If you’re looking for a statement plant that’s as easy to care for as it is visually dramatic, Japanese ligularia deserves a spot on your must-grow list.

Ligularia reniformis with lush leaves growing in a container.

Ligularia reniformis

5 from 2 customers

Ligularia reniformis, commonly known as the Tractor Seat Plant, is a striking foliage plant ideal for shaded New Zealand gardens. It features large, glossy, kidney-shaped leaves that resemble old-fashioned tractor seats, adding bold texture and drama to garden beds. This evergreen perennial thrives in moist, well-drained soils and sheltered spots. Perfect for tropical-themed gardens, borders, or underplanting trees, it brings year-round interest and pairs well with ferns and hostas.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Perennials
Height: 75 cm
Spread: 75 cm
Flowering time: Summer
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical
Acer palmatum Hanami Nishiki tree with lush green foliage.

Acer palmatum Hanami Nishiki (Acer Hanami Nishiki)

Acer palmatum Hanami Nishiki is a stunning Japanese Maple due to its delicate foliage and small stature. Small and soft looking leaves emerge yellow-green in spring with reddish margins. They mature to a light green in summer before turning spectacular shades of yellow and orange in autumn before falling. It grows with a somewhat rounded shape to about 2.5 m tall and the same wide. Acer Hanami Nishiki makes for a magnificent specimen and is ideal for including in a mixed planting, planting to soften a bland wall, maintaining in a container or courtyard garden, planting to border an entrance, or for using anywhere the spectacular colours can be enjoyed.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 2.50 m
Spread: 2.50 m
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
acer-senkaki-
Acer palmatum Senkaki (Acer Senkaki)

Acer palmatum Senkaki is a stunning Japanese Maple or Coral Bark Maple due to its striking and delicate foliage. Small, soft looking leaves emerge...

From$299.95
Acer palmatum 'Crimson Princess' tree with fine green foliage tinged with purple.
Acer 'Crimson Princess'

Acer palmatum 'Crimson Princess' is a stunning Japanese maple known for its deeply cut, cascading burgundy foliage that intensifies through the...

From$299.95
ligustrum-rotundifolium-4
Ligustrum 'Rotundifolium'

Ligustrum 'Rotundifolium' (Japanese Privet) is a hardy evergreen shrub admired for its rounded glossy green leaves and dense compact growth habit...

From$24.77
acer-viridis--4
Acer palmatum dissectum 'Viridis'

Acer palmatum dissectum 'Viridis' is a graceful Japanese Maple prized for its finely dissected bright green foliage and elegant cascading form. The...

From$349.95
Acer palmatum 'Crimson Queen' specimen tree with purple-red cascading foliage.
Acer palmatum 'Crimson Queen'

Acer palmatum 'Crimson Queen' is a highly admired weeping Japanese maple known for its finely dissected burgundy foliage that retains rich colour...

From$299.95
acer-tamukeyama-1
Acer palmatum dissectum 'Tamukeyama'

Acer palmatum dissectum 'Tamukeyama' is one of the most admired Japanese Maples, prized for its finely dissected deep red foliage and graceful...

From$299.95
acer-fjellheim-4
Acer palmatum Fjellheim (Fjellheim Japanese Maple)

Acer palmatum Fjellheim is an impressive Japanese Maple featuring a rich display of delicate foliage held on colourful stems. Leaves on this small...

From$399.95
iris-rose-queen-
Iris Rose Queen (Japanese Water Iris)

“Rose Queen” is a variety of Japanese Water Iris that produces spectacular flowers. The showy, two-tone pink blooms are borne atop sturdy stems in...

From$27.53
Acer palmatum dissectum 'Stella Rossa' tree with fine, dark purple foliage.
Acer 'Stella Rossa'

Acer 'Stella Rossa' is a striking Japanese Maple valued for its finely dissected deep red foliage and elegant cascading growth habit. The rich...

From$399.95
Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood' specimen tree with colourful dark red foliage.
Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'

Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood' (Bloodgood Japanese Maple) is one of the most reliable and popular Japanese maples, valued for its deep red foliage and...

From$299.95
Iris kaempferi blue-purple flowers.
Iris kaempferi

Iris kaempferi is a striking Japanese iris admired for its large flat flowers in shades of blue purple and white that bloom in early summer. This...

From$27.53
Acer shirasawanum 'Autumn Moon' tree in a garden.
Acer shirasawanum 'Autumn Moon'

Acer shirasawanum 'Autumn Moon' is a standout Japanese maple admired for its glowing apricot and orange toned foliage that brings warmth and vibrancy...

From$299.95
A large Ilex crenata 'Convexa' shrub with dense, green foliage.
Ilex crenata Convexa (Japanese Holly)

Ilex crenata 'Convexa' is a compact evergreen shrub admired for its small glossy dark green leaves and naturally dense growth habit. Often used as an...

From$27.53
podocarpus-macrophyllus-maki-1
Podocarpus Maki (Fern Pine)

Podocarpus macrophyllus Maki, commonly known as Shrubby Yew Tree, Chinese Podocarpus, or Shrubby Podocarpus, produces dense, dark green leaves, with...

From$192.51
Acer 'Shaina' small and round trees with elegant, dark red-purple foliage.
Acer palmatum 'Shaina'

Acer palmatum 'Shaina' is a compact Japanese maple prized for its intense crimson red foliage and naturally tidy upright habit. This deciduous tree...

From$299.95
Acer palmatum 'Red Emperor' specimen tree in a mixed planting.
Acer 'Red Emperor'

Acer 'Red Emperor' is a striking Japanese maple valued for its rich deep red foliage and strong upright form. This deciduous tree performs...

From$349.95
acer-seiryu-
Acer palmatum 'Seiryu'

Acer palmatum 'Seiryu' is a unique Japanese Maple admired for its finely dissected foliage and upright growth habit. Unlike many laceleaf maples...

From$299.95
Acer 'Asahi Zuru' green and white variegated foliage.
Acer 'Asahi Zuru'

Acer 'Asahi Zuru' is a stunning Japanese Maple known for its delicate, variegated leaves that blend pink, white, and green tones. In autumn, the...

From$24.95
pachysandra-terminalis-5
Pachysandra terminalis

Pachysandra terminalis, commonly known as Japanese Spurge, is a hardy evergreen groundcover valued for its glossy dark green foliage and dense...

From$23.39
cryptomeria-japonica-2
Cryptomeria japonica

Cryptomeria japonica (Japanese Cedar) is a majestic evergreen conifer valued for its tall upright form and soft rich green foliage. It brings...

From$270.40
Acer palmatum 'Fireglow' bright red foliage.
Acer 'Fireglow'

Acer 'Fireglow' is a striking Japanese maple prized for its brilliant deep red foliage that holds colour exceptionally well throughout the season...

From$349.95
An Acer 'Katsura' specimen tree with orange and green foliage.
Acer 'Katsura'

Acer 'Katsura' is a stunning Japanese maple known for its brilliant apricot orange spring foliage that matures to fresh green before turning vibrant...

From$299.95
Acer 'Shidava Gold' small tree with lush, green and yellow foliage.
Acer 'Shidava Gold'

Acer 'Shidava Gold' is a bright and elegant Japanese maple valued for its golden yellow foliage that brings light and contrast to garden spaces. This...

From$349.95
Pittosporum tobira green foliage and elegant white flowers.
Pittosporum tobira (Australian Laurel)

Pittosporum tobira, commonly known as Japanese Pittosporum or mock orange, is a versatile, evergreen shrub prized for its glossy, green foliage and...

From$206.50
Juniperus procumbens 'Nana' (prostrate Juniper) growing as a tidy ground cover.
Juniperus procumbens Nana (Japanese Dwarf Juniper)

Juniperus procumbens 'Nana', commonly known as the Prostrate Juniper, is a ground-hugging conifer that forms a carpet of blue-green, needle-like...

From$34.43
fatsia-japonica-
Fatsia japonica

Fatsia japonica (Japanese Aralia) is a bold evergreen shrub known for its large, glossy leaves that bring a tropical feel to New Zealand gardens. It...

From$35.81
An elegant Miscanthus sinensis grass with cream-coloured flower plumes and lush green foliage.
Miscanthus sinensis

Miscanthus sinensis is an ornamental grass that grows as a clump of narrow, arching, green leaves. The colouring gives a light silver-green effect to...

From$19.95
Carex 'Everlime' plants for sale at The Plant Company nursery.
Carex 'Everlime' (Lime Grass Plant)

Carex ‘Everlime’ (Japanese Sedge) is a popular evergreen sedge valued for its graceful arching green foliage edged with bright lime cream margins...

From$19.95
Imperata 'Red Baron' with colourful, red foliage
Imperata Red Baron

Imperata 'Red Baron', commonly known as Japanese Blood Grass, features leaves that are green at the base and become red further up the blade. Through...

From$20.63
Ligularia 'Rukuhia Beauty' in a garden with lush, green foliage.
Ligularia 'Rukuhia Beauty' (Small Leaved Ligularia)

Ligularia 'Rukuhia Beauty' is a striking perennial valued for its bold foliage and rich garden presence. Large broad leaves form lush clumps that...

OUT OF STOCK
Ligularia reniformis

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acer, Iris, and Ligularia, or related Categories - Perennials, Iris Plants, and Evergreen Shrubs.

Search japanese ligularia

Why Grow Japanese Ligularia?

Japanese ligularia stands out for its large, heart-shaped or rounded leaves which create lush mounds in semi-shaded gardens. The foliage varies from deep green to purple-bronze tones, depending on the variety, and often features attractive marbling or contrasting undersides. Tall flower spikes emerge in late summer, delivering clusters of golden-yellow blooms that attract pollinators and brighten shady corners.

This plant thrives in cool, moist soil, making it an ideal solution for tricky, damp spots where other perennials may struggle. Japanese ligularia is also relatively resistant to pests and diseases, aside from the rare slug or snail. Whether mass-planted for groundcover or featured as an architectural focal point, it brings dramatic texture and calming greenery to modern and cottage gardens alike.

Popular Varieties to Explore

There’s a wonderful range of Japanese ligularia types and hybrids suited for New Zealand growing conditions. Looking for compact foliage and subtle yellow flowers? Try Ligularia 'Rukuhia Beauty' (Small Leaved Ligularia). Need something with dramatic purple-black leaves? Ligularia 'Britt-Marie Crawford' (Black Leaved Ligularia) is a true standout.

For those drawn to foliage patterns, Ligularia argentea (Variegated Ligularia) features beautifully marked silver and green leaves, bringing extra brightness to shady beds. Fans of distinctive spots will love Ligularia 'Aureomaculata' (Leopard Plant), with its classic yellow dots. For sheer architectural presence, Ligularia 'Othello' boasts robust red-stemmed leaves and golden blooms.

Tips for Growing Japanese Ligularia in New Zealand Gardens

Japanese ligularia flourishes in consistently moist soils with good drainage. It enjoys full to part shade, and protection from strong afternoon sun helps prevent leaf scorch during hot summers. Ample organic matter in the soil provides the nutrients needed for vigorous growth and lush foliage.

Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry spells. Mulch well in spring to retain moisture and discourage weeds. Removing spent flower stalks will keep the plant looking tidy and may encourage repeat blooms. Japanese ligularia rarely requires dividing, but mature clumps can be split in early spring if desired.

Where to Plant Japanese Ligularia

This garden landscape favourite excels beside ponds or streams, in woodland plantings, or in shaded mixed borders. Pair japanese ligularia with ferns, hostas, astilbes, or other moisture-loving shade perennials for a layered, natural look. Many gardeners love incorporating complementary varieties such as Ligularia 'Britt-Marie Crawford' (Black Leaved Ligularia) or Ligularia 'Rukuhia Beauty' (Small Leaved Ligularia) for diverse colour and form.

Discover the visual drama, toughness, and seasonal interest of japanese ligularia – a true hero for shady, damp spots in New Zealand gardens.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.8

445 Google reviews