Doronicum Finesse

Doronicum orientale 'Finesse' is a selection of Caucasian Doronicum that presents flowers resembling large daisies in vivid yellow, whose "petals" or tubular ligules have a very delicate, airy appearance. For the rest, its characteristics are identical to those of the species. This perennial that brightens up spring has a rhizomatous rootstock, which allows it to form a large clump over time in light and fresh soils where it thrives. It forms beautiful cushions of velvety, pleasant-to-touch spring-green leaves. A natural and joyful flower, particularly interesting under trees or at the base of a hedge in a sandy, not too rich soil that remains somewhat moist in summer.

Doronicum orientale (synonym D. caucasicum, D. cordatum) belongs to the large family of Asteraceae, just like daisies and sunflowers. This montane botanical species is native to southeastern Europe, the Caucasus, Lebanon, and Turkey. Doronicum 'Finesse' is a horticultural selection. It is a herbaceous perennial plant with underground rhizomes that spreads slowly without becoming invasive. It forms from spring onwards cushions of light green, heart-shaped leaves, slightly velvety and toothed. Flowering takes place in April-May. Emerging from the foliage are thin floral stems, reaching about 50cm (20in) in height. Each carries at its tip one or two flowers organized in heads of 4-5cm (2in) in diameter, like those of daisies. Each head consists of a yellow centre composed of tiny fertile flowers surrounded by long tubular ligules of a brighter yellow. This rather early flowering attracts and nourishes many insects. The foliage remains compact and decorative during the summer if the soil does not dry out. Otherwise, the plant goes into dormancy and the foliage dries up. In any case, the foliage is deciduous and absent in winter.

To welcome spring in cool and slightly shaded areas of the garden, adopt the Caucasian Doronicum Finesse. Planted in groups, this perennial will attract attention to somewhat forgotten spaces, towards the back of the garden or under large trees. Mixed with some bugbanes, Japanese anemones, wood hyacinths, and Goat's beard (Aruncus), it will create a slightly wild composition that will greatly appeal to bees.