Also known as Heart-Leaved Arnica · Heart-Leaved Leopardbane · Heartleaf Arnica
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Heart-Leaf Arnica (Arnica cordifolia) is a perennial wildflower native to western North America, known for its bright yellow daisy-like flowers and medicinal uses.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade. Avoid intense direct sun.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained, acidic to neutral soils
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in cooler temperatures, dislikes extreme heat. Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Generally does not require feeding; use a light, balanced fertilizer in spring if needed.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are considered toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, especially during dry periods, to maintain evenly moist soil. Arnica prefers not to dry out completely but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Pruning is minimal for Arnica cordifolia. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming and to prevent seed production if desired. Remove any dead or damaged foliage in early spring before new growth emerges.
The plant generally maintains a neat, natural habit.
Propagation can be done through division of established clumps in spring or fall. Seeds can also be sown in fall or after a period of cold stratification. Germination can be slow and erratic.
Division is generally the most reliable method for home gardeners.
Repotting is typically not necessary for Arnica cordifolia, as it prefers undisturbed conditions. If growing in a container, repot only when root-bound, usually every 2-3 years, in early spring.
Use a well-draining potting mix amended with organic matter.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Heart-Leaf Arnica (Arnica cordifolia)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Arnica |
| Species | Arnica cordifolia |
Similar in genus Arnica
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
