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    • Ligularia

    Ligularia (lig-yew-lay-ree-uh), golden ray, leopard plant; Asteraceae Family. Easily grown, tall perennials from Europe and Asia make fine foliage effects in a border. Although Ligularia are grown primarily for their interesting foliage, they have pretty sprays of small orange and yellow flowers in mid to late summer. 

    Ligularias are at their best when grown in cool, organically rich, medium to wet soils in part shade to full shade. Plants must have moist soils that never dry out to prevent wilting. Protection from the hot, afternoon sun in the south is essential. They are a natural for the pond side where there is a constant supply of moisture, though they do require good drainage. Ligularia might wilt during hot afternoons, with or without adequate moisture. Temporary wilting should not distress the plant. If plants do not recover by morning, water deeply as plant absorbs moisture primarily from the root tips.

    Attributes: Border plants, Container, Cut flower or foliage, Specimen or focal point plant, Attracts butterflies, Deer resistant.

    • Ligularia 'Big Green Tractor' PPAF (30)ct Flat Ligularia 'Big Green Tractor' PPAF (30)ct Flat

      Ligularia

      Ligularia 'Big Green Tractor' PPAF (30)ct Flat

      Ligularia 'Big Green Tractor' PPAF (30)ct Flat Common Name: GoldenrayFormerly known as L. 'Tractor Seat' L. japonica hybrid. A very large Ligularia perfect for making a dramatic statement in the shade garden. Deep green leaves are massive reaching 16"...

      $273.15
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    Ligularia, also known as Leopard Plant, is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family (Asteraceae). Ligularia are prized for their large, dramatic foliage and tall spikes of bright yellow or orange flowers. These perennials are ideal for adding a touch of the exotic to damp gardens, pond margins, or shady borders.

    • Leaves: Ligularia have large, bold leaves that can be heart-shaped, kidney-shaped, or triangular. The leaf color varies depending on the species and cultivar, ranging from deep green to purple or bronze.
    • Flowers: The daisy-like flowers are borne in clusters on tall spikes that rise above the foliage. The blooming period typically occurs in mid to late summer.
    • Size: Ligularia can grow quite large, with some species reaching heights of 6 feet or more. They also spread readily, making them excellent groundcovers for damp areas.
    • Light: Ligularia prefer partial shade, especially in hot climates. Morning sun and afternoon shade are ideal.
    • Soil: They thrive in moist, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter.
    • Water: Consistent moisture is essential, especially during dry periods. Ligularia are well-suited to boggy areas or near ponds.
    • Hardiness: Most species are hardy in USDA Zones 4-8.

    Popular Cultivars

    • 'The Rocket': This cultivar features tall spikes of bright yellow flowers and large, heart-shaped leaves. It can grow up to 5 feet tall.
    • 'Britt-Marie Crawford': This cultivar boasts dark purple foliage and daisy-like orange flowers. It is hardy to Zone 3.
    • 'Desdemona': This cultivar has large, rounded leaves that emerge reddish-purple and mature to deep green. The yellow flowers bloom in late summer.

    Care Tips

    • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot weather.
    • Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring.
    • Deadheading: Remove spent flower stalks to encourage continuous blooming.
    • Dividing: Divide clumps every few years in spring to maintain vigor and control spread.
    • Pests and Diseases: Ligularia are generally pest and disease resistant. However, slugs and snails may be attracted to the foliage.

    With their dramatic foliage and vibrant blooms, ligularia are a striking addition to any shade garden. They are relatively low-maintenance and can thrive for years with proper care.

    If your garden boasts a damp corner or a tranquil pond and you are seeking a statement plant, look no further than the magnificent ligularia.

    Thriving in colder climates, captivating the eye with their impressive, kidney-shaped leaves and towering spikes of golden flowers. Ligularia's blooming period spans several weeks in mid to late summer, but even without their blossoms, they command attention in any garden landscape.

    A beloved cultivar, 'The Rocket' (Ligularia stenocephala 'The Rocket'), can spread an impressive 4 to 5 feet, with flower spikes reaching 4 feet or more. This variety makes a stunning backdrop in a border or along the edge of a pond. Another sought-after variety, 'Britt-Marie Crawford' (Ligularia dentata 'Britt-Marie Crawford'), is remarkably hardy, thriving even in USDA Zone 3. Its deep purple leaves and daisy-like flowers create a dramatic contrast.

    All ligularia varieties flourish in sun to partial sun, with morning sun and afternoon shade being the ideal scenario. They demand rich, moist soil. If you can fulfill these conditions, ligularia will reward you with years of spectacular blooms.

    Ligularia FAQ

    Ligularia 'Big Green Tractor' is a bold and beautiful perennial known for its massive leaves and bright yellow flowers. It is a fantastic choice for adding a dramatic touch to shady gardens.

    Here is a breakdown of its key features:

    • Giant Foliage: The most striking feature of 'Big Green Tractor' is its enormous, rounded leaves. These can grow up to 16 inches across, creating a lush, tropical feel. The leaves are deeply lobed with serrated edges, adding to their textural interest.
    • Sunny Flowers: In mid-summer, tall flower stalks emerge, bearing clusters of daisy-like, golden-yellow flowers. These bright blooms provide a lovely contrast to the deep green foliage.
    • Shade Lover: 'Big Green Tractor' thrives in partial to full shade. It is an excellent choice for those shady spots in the garden where other plants struggle.
    • Moisture Needs: This plant prefers consistently moist soil. It is important to keep it well-watered, especially during hot, dry periods.
    • Imposing Size: 'Big Green Tractor' can reach a mature size of 3 to 5 feet tall and 4 to 5 feet wide. Make sure you give it plenty of space to grow!

    Why You Might Love It:

    • Dramatic Effect: Its large leaves and bright flowers create a dramatic focal point in the shade garden.
    • Easy Care: Once established, 'Big Green Tractor' is relatively low-maintenance.
    • Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies to your garden.
    • Long-Lasting Interest: The bold foliage provides interest throughout the growing season, even when not in bloom.

    Where to Plant It:

    • Shady Borders: Plant it towards the back of a border to create a lush backdrop.
    • Woodland Gardens: It thrives in the dappled shade of woodland settings.
    • Near Water Features: Its moisture needs make it a good choice for planting near ponds or streams.
    • Containers: You can even grow it in a large container on a shady patio.

    If you are looking for a statement plant to brighten up a shady corner of your garden, Ligularia 'Big Green Tractor' is a fantastic option!

    Common Name: Leopard Plant

    Ligularia 'Britt-Marie Crawford' is a stunning herbaceous perennial renowned for its bold, glossy, purple-black leaves and vibrant orange-yellow daisy-like flowers. Thriving in moist to wet, partially shaded locations, this clump-forming plant creates a dramatic focal point in woodland gardens, along streams, or near ponds.

    • Showy Foliage: Large, rounded, purple-black leaves with wavy edges create a striking visual impact throughout the growing season.
    • Vibrant Blooms: Daisy-like, bright orange-yellow flowers rise above the foliage in mid to late summer, adding a burst of color to shady areas.
    • Shade-Loving: Thrives in part shade to full shade, making it an ideal choice for challenging low-light areas.
    • Moisture-Loving: Requires consistently moist to wet soil and benefits from regular deep watering during hot summers.
    • Genus: Ligularia
    • Family: Asteraceae
    • Origin: Discovered in Scotland
    • Named After: Britt-Marie Crawford
    • Zones: 4 to 8
    • Height: 2 to 3 feet
    • Spread: 1.5 to 2 feet
    • Bloom Time: June to July
    • Bloom Color: Orange-yellow
    • Sun: Part shade to full shade
    • Water: Medium to wet
    • Maintenance: Medium
    • Soil: Rich, humusy, medium to wet
    • Tolerates: Heavy shade, moist to wet soil
    • Pest Susceptibility: Slugs and snails
    • Plant in a consistently moist to wet location with partial to full shade.
    • Provide shelter from strong winds.
    • Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather.
    • Protect from slugs and snails.

    Landscape Use:

    • Ideal for shade or woodland gardens, especially in moist or wet areas.
    • Excellent along streams, ponds, or bog gardens.
    • Adds a dramatic touch to shaded borders.
    • Can be grouped or massed for greater impact.

    Note: In hot summer climates, leaves may wilt even with adequate moisture, especially if exposed to too much sun. Choose a location with afternoon shade or dappled shade for optimal performance.

    With its unique foliage and vibrant blooms, Ligularia 'Britt-Marie Crawford' brings a touch of drama and elegance to any shade garden!

    Common Name: Leopard Plant

    Ligularia stenocephala 'The Rocket' is a captivating perennial prized for its striking spires of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in summer. This cultivar is known for its compact size, reaching a height of 18-24 inches, making it suitable for smaller gardens or containers. The large, deeply-lobed leaves add a lush, tropical feel to shady areas.

    This plant thrives in partial shade with moist, rich soil. Avoid hot midday sun, which can cause the leaves to wilt. It is perfect for adding a vibrant touch to woodland gardens, shady borders, or even near water features.

    • Genus: Ligularia
    • Species: stenocephala
    • Family: Asteraceae
    • Type: Perennial
    • Propagation: Division
    • Light: Partial Shade
    • Soil: High Organic Matter, Good Drainage, Occasionally Wet
    • USDA Plant Hardiness Zones: 5a - 7b
    • Flower Color: Gold/Yellow
    • Flower Bloom Time: Summer
    • Showy yellow flower spires
    • Compact size
    • Lush foliage
    • Thrives in partial shade and moist soil
    • Provide consistently moist soil.
    • Protect from hot afternoon sun.
    • Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor.

    Remember: With its vibrant flowers and bold foliage, Ligularia stenocephala 'The Rocket' is sure to add a touch of drama and elegance to any shady garden!

    Common Name: Leopard Plant

    Farfugium japonicum, commonly known as the Leopard Plant, is a captivating clump-forming perennial celebrated for its large, glossy, kidney-shaped leaves adorned with striking golden spots. Native to the streambanks and moist meadows of Japan and eastern Asia, this member of the Asteraceae (daisy) family brings a touch of exotic elegance to shade gardens.

    Leopard Plants flourish in dappled sunlight to deep shade, with their leaves prone to burning in direct sun. Ideally, provide rich, moist soil, though they tolerate drier conditions than other Ligularia species. During hot summers, ensure deep, regular watering.

    In late summer to fall, loose clusters of cheerful yellow, daisy-like flowers emerge, adding a touch of sunshine to shady spots. However, it is the bold, spotted foliage that truly steals the show, often leading gardeners to remove the flowers to emphasize the leaves' unique beauty.

    This Ligularia species thrives in the warm Piedmont and Coastal Plain regions. Utilize its lush foliage in small groups, mass plantings along woodland borders, or as a striking accent near water features like ponds, pools, or bog gardens.

    • Genus: Farfugium
    • Species: japonicum
    • Family: Asteraceae
    • Type: Herbaceous Perennial, Deciduous
    • USDA Plant Hardiness Zones: 7a - 9b
    • Height: 1 - 3 feet
    • Width: 1 - 2 feet
    • Light: Dappled Sunlight, Deep Shade, Partial Shade
    • Soil: High Organic Matter, Good Drainage, Moist, Occasionally Wet
    • Flower Color: Yellow
    • Flower Bloom Time: Late Summer to Fall
    • Habit/Form: Clumping
    • Maintenance: Medium
    • Landscape Use: Meadow, Pond, Pool/Hardscape, Riparian, Woodland, Shade Garden
    • Design Feature: Border, Mass Planting, Small groups
    • Resistance to Challenges: Deer, Heavy Shade, Wet Soil
    • Pest Susceptibility: Occasional slugs and snails

    Care Tips:

    • Plant in shade with consistently moist soil.
    • Water deeply during dry periods.
    • Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor.
    • Monitor for slugs and snails.
    • Embrace the Beauty:

    With its dramatic foliage and adaptability to shade, Farfugium japonicum adds an irresistible touch of the exotic to any garden. Its bold leaves create a stunning tapestry of textures and colors, making it a true standout in the landscape.

    Ligularia is a perennial plant known for its bold foliage and tall flower spikes. Here are its characteristics:

    • Foliage: Ligularia has large, showy leaves that can be heart-shaped, kidney-shaped, or triangular. The leaves are often toothed or serrated and can have a glossy appearance. Some varieties even have leaves with different colors or patterns.
    • Flowers: The flowers of Ligularia are daisy-like and come in shades of yellow, orange, or red. They bloom in mid to late summer on tall spikes that can reach up to 6 feet tall.
    • Size: Ligularia plants can vary in size, but they typically grow to be 3-6 feet tall and wide. Some varieties can even grow up to 8 feet tall.
    • Hardiness: Ligularia is a hardy plant that is suitable for growing in USDA zones 3-9. This means that it can withstand cold temperatures down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • Light: Ligularia prefers to grow in partial shade or shade. In very hot climates, they may need protection from the afternoon sun.
    • Soil: Ligularia prefers to grow in moist, well-drained soil. They benefit from being mulched in the spring to help retain moisture.

    Ligularia is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings. They can be planted as a specimen plant, in a border, or even in a container. Because they prefer shade, they are a great choice for filling in empty spaces in shady areas of the garden.

    Planting time: The best time to plant Ligularia is either in early spring or early fall. Spring planting allows the new plant to establish itself before the hot summer months, while fall planting gives it time to develop roots before winter.

    Location: Choose a spot in your garden that receives partial shade or shade. In very hot climates, afternoon shade is important. Ligularia prefers moist, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, amend it with compost to improve drainage and add organic matter.

    Planting steps:

    • Dig a hole that is about twice the width and depth of the root ball of your Ligularia plant.
    • If amending your soil, mix compost into the dug-out soil.
    • Remove the Ligularia plant from its container and gently loosen the roots with your fingers.
    • Place the plant in the hole, making sure the crown (the point where the roots and stems meet) is level with the soil surface.
    • Backfill the hole with soil and tamp it down gently.
    • Water the plant thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.

    Container planting:

    Ligularia can also be grown in containers. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes. Use a good quality potting mix that is well-draining. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot weather. You may also need to fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

    Aftercare:

    Water your Ligularia regularly, especially during the first year after planting and during hot weather. They do not tolerate dry soil well. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant in the spring to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooms. In the fall, you can cut back the foliage after it dies down.

    There are over 150 species of Ligularia, but some of the most popular varieties include:

    • Ligularia dentata 'Britt-Marie Crawford': This variety has stunning, broad, glossy, dark chocolate leaves with dark purple undersides. It produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers in mid to late summer. It grows to be 3-4 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide.
    • Ligularia stenocephala 'The Rocket': This is one of the most well-known varieties of Ligularia. It has stunning black-stemmed spikes of yellow flowers that rise out of mounded deep green, tooth-edged foliage. It can grow up to 5-6 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.
    • Ligularia przewalskii 'The Deborah': This variety has large, rounded, dark green leaves with prominent veins. It produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers in mid to late summer on tall, reddish-brown stems. It can grow up to 5-6 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.
    • Ligularia dentata 'Desdemona': This variety has deep green, heart-shaped leaves with toothed edges. It produces deep yellow, daisy-like flowers (2"-4" across) in summer, rising above the leaves on thick stems. It can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide.
    • Ligularia heucherifolia 'Her Majesty': This variety has large, rounded, golden-yellow leaves with scalloped edges. It produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers in mid to late summer on tall, reddish-brown stems. It can grow up to 4-5 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.

    These are just a few of the many varieties of Ligularia available. With so many different varieties to choose from, you are sure to find one that is perfect for your garden.

    Here is how to care for your Ligularia:

    • Watering: Ligularia thrives in moist soil and dislikes drying out. Water your plant regularly, especially during the first year after planting and during hot weather. A deep soak once or twice a week is usually sufficient, but you may need to adjust this depending on your climate and soil conditions. The leaves will wilt if the plant gets too dry, so this can be a good indicator for watering needs.
    • Light: Ligularia prefers partial shade or shade. In very hot climates, afternoon shade is important. While they can tolerate some full sun, especially in cooler climates, the leaves may scorch and the flowers may be less prolific.
    • Soil: Ligularia prefers moist, well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, amend it with compost to improve drainage and add organic matter. A layer of mulch around the base of the plant in the spring will help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
    • Fertilizing: You can fertilize your Ligularia once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. However, they are not heavy feeders and do not require a lot of fertilizer to thrive.
    • Deadheading: Deadheading spent flowers will encourage additional blooms throughout the season. Simply cut off the flower heads just below the wilted blooms.
    • Pruning: In the fall, after the foliage dies down, you can cut back the stems to a few inches above the ground. Alternatively, you can wait to cut back the stems until early spring.
    • Dividing: Ligularia can be divided every 3-4 years to propagate new plants and rejuvenate existing ones. The best time to divide Ligularia is in early spring or fall.
    • Pests and Diseases: Ligularia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to slugs and snails, which can damage the leaves. You can use a variety of methods to control slugs and snails, such as handpicking them off the plants, using traps, or applying a commercial slug and snail bait.

    By following these simple care tips, you can enjoy your Ligularia for many years to come.

    Yes, Ligularia does attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and even some hummingbirds! Here is why:

    • Bright Flowers: Ligularia boasts daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, orange, or red. These cheerful colors are known to attract pollinators who are drawn to bright colors as they signal the presence of nectar.
    • Pollen Source: The flowers of Ligularia produce pollen, a valuable food source for bees and other pollinating insects.

    While Ligularia flowers may not be highly fragrant, the combination of bright colors and pollen effectively beckons pollinators to visit the plant.

    Ligularia is generally considered a low-maintenance plant with good resistance to pests and diseases. However, there are a couple of common annoyances to watch out for:

    Slugs and Snails: These slimy creatures love to munch on the lush foliage of Ligularia, especially young shoots in spring. They tend to come out at night so you might not readily see them. Signs of slug and snail damage include ragged holes or chewed edges on the leaves.

    • Control Methods: There are several ways to deal with slugs and snails:
      • Handpicking: Check for them at night with a flashlight and handpick them off the plants.
      • Traps: Set up beer traps or commercial slug traps around your Ligularia.
      • Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkle diatomaceous earth (DE) around the base of your plant to create a barrier that dehydrates slugs and snails.
      • Baits: Use commercial slug and snail baits specifically designed for gardens. Be aware that these can be harmful to pets and wildlife, so use them with caution.


    Japanese Beetles (less common): In some areas, Japanese beetles can be a problem for Ligularia, particularly the non-Japanese varieties. These metallic green beetles with coppery wing covers feed on the leaves.

      • Control Methods: Here are some ways to manage Japanese beetles:
        • Handpicking: Handpick and dispose of the beetles if the infestation is small.
        • Row Covers: Use row covers to physically protect your Ligularia from the beetles.
        • Insecticidal Soap: Apply insecticidal soap sprays directly to the beetles.

    While Ligularia is not typically used as a cut flower, there are some possibilities! Here is a breakdown:

    • Flowers: The daisy-like flowers of Ligularia might not be the most ideal for floral arrangements. They tend to have a shorter vase life compared to traditional cut flowers and may not hold up well after being cut.
    • Foliage: Ligularia's strong suit for floral arrangements lies in its stunning foliage. The bold, dark green or bronze leaves with interesting textures and shapes can add drama and a unique touch to arrangements. Varieties like 'Britt-Marie Crawford' with dark chocolate leaves or 'Her Majesty' with golden yellow leaves are particularly striking.

    Here are some things to consider if you want to use Ligularia foliage in arrangements:

    • Freshness: Cut the foliage when it is fresh and healthy, ideally in the early morning.
    • Conditioning: Give the foliage a fresh cut at the stem base and place it in a deep vase filled with cool water for several hours before using it in your arrangement.
    • Longevity: The foliage likely will not last as long as some other greenery options. Consider it an accent piece and enjoy the arrangement for a shorter period.

    Overall, while Ligularia is not a mainstream choice for floral arrangements, its bold foliage can add a creative touch if you are looking for something unique and you understand it might not have a long vase life.

    Ligularia is not typically considered invasive in most gardening situations. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

    • Spreading: While not aggressively spreading, Ligularia can spread slowly through underground rhizomes. This might not be a problem in a well-maintained garden bed but could be an issue if planted near natural areas or in borders where you do not want it to encroach on other plants.
    • Misidentification: There is a chance you might have a different plant that looks similar to Ligularia but exhibits more aggressive spreading tendencies. For example, some plants like Yellow Archangel (Lysimachia punctata) or Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) can be mistaken for Ligularia but are known to be invasive.

    Here is what you can do to ensure Ligularia does not become a problem in your garden:

    • Choose the right location: Plant Ligularia in a contained bed where you can monitor its growth. Avoid planting it near borders or natural areas where it might spread unwanted.
    • Deadheading: Regularly deadheading the flowers will prevent seed production and minimize the chance of unwanted seedlings popping up in other areas of your garden.
    • Monitor and Divide: Keep an eye on your Ligularia's growth habit. If you notice it spreading more than desired, you can divide the plant every 3-4 years. This will not only control its spread but also rejuvenate the plant.
    • Consider alternative plants: If you are concerned about Ligularia's spreading potential, there are other shade-loving plants with bold foliage that might be better suited for your garden. Some options include Rodgersia, Hosta, or Heuchera.

    If you are unsure about the exact species of Ligularia you have or have concerns about its invasiveness in your specific region, it is always a good idea to consult your local cooperative extension office. They can help you identify your plant and offer advice on best practices for growing it in your area.

    The best time to propagate Ligularia by division is in either early spring or early fall.

    Here is a breakdown of the pros and cons of each time:

    Early Spring:

    • Pros: New divisions have a cool growing season to establish themselves before the hot summer arrives.
    • Cons: The plant may not flower as much in the current season since it is focusing its energy on root development.

    Early Fall:

    • Pros: Established divisions have a long dormancy period during winter to develop strong roots before putting on new growth in spring.
    • Cons: The foliage may not look its best after dividing in fall, but it will recover in spring.

    Ultimately, the best time for you depends on your priorities and climate. If you are in a cooler climate with a long growing season, either spring or fall might work well. If you are in a hotter climate, early spring might be preferable to give the new plant time to establish before the heat arrives.

    Here are the benefits of planting Ligularia in your garden:

    • Beautiful foliage and flowers: Ligularia boasts stunning bold foliage in various shapes and sizes, with some varieties even having interesting colors or patterns. The tall spikes of daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, orange, or red add another layer of beauty to the garden in mid to late summer.
    • Shade tolerance:Ligularia thrives in partial shade or shade, making it a perfect choice for brightening up those often-difficult shady areas of your garden. They can add color and interest where other shade-loving plants might fall short.
    • Attracts pollinators: The bright flowers and pollen production of Ligularia attract bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds, contributing to a healthy and vibrant garden ecosystem.
    • Low maintenance: Ligularia is generally a low-maintenance plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. They do not require a lot of fertilizer and are relatively easy to care for.
    • Moist soil tolerance: If you have a damp area in your garden that is difficult to utilize, Ligularia can thrive in those conditions where other plants might struggle.
    • Architectural interest: The bold foliage and tall flower spikes of Ligularia add architectural interest and texture to your garden design. They can be used as specimen plants, in borders, or even containers.

    Overall, Ligularia is a versatile and rewarding plant that offers a combination of beautiful foliage and flowers, shade tolerance, and ease of care. It can be a valuable addition to many garden styles and can help create a more visually interesting and ecologically beneficial landscape.