What's eating my przewalskii ligularia?

Slugs and snails are Przewalskii Ligularia's worst enemy, attacking the deeply cut, elegant foliage from the moment it breaks ground in spring. Aphids may colonize the tall flower spikes in early summer. The plant is generally deer-resistant. Consistent slug deterrence through the growing season keeps it looking its best.

Ragged holes and scalloped edges on the finely cut leaves; young crowns can be stripped before leaves fully open; slime trails confirm the culprit Apply iron phosphate slug bait preventatively from early spring; top-dress around crowns with sharp horticultural grit; set beer traps at soil level nearby

Soft colonies on flower stems and developing buds; sticky honeydew causes sooty mold; flower spikes may be stunted Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap solution; encourage natural predators; knock off with a jet of water if infestation is light

Adults leave characteristic U-shaped notches in leaf margins; larvae chew through roots and crowns, causing plant collapse Apply beneficial nematodes (Steinernema kraussei or Heterorhabditis megidis) to damp soil in August–September; remove adult beetles by hand at night