Garden Inspiration: The Bane of Rabbits?

Could this be doronicum orientale?
Found in a Paris park (Champs-Élysées); April 2011

Early mornings and late evenings in my meadow, the cottontails outnumber the whitetails. It is no longer the whitetail deer that have me running to look for chewed plants—it is the rabbits.

While in Paris in April 2011, strolling in a park off the Champs-Élysées, I was drawn to a mound of yellow flowers. Beautiful, perfect blooms glowed in mass planting in partial shade.

Researching the web, I decided this flower must be Leopards Bane (doronicum orientale). The perennial, being a native of Europe and Asia, supposedly acquired its name as a repellent of wild animals. In particular, rabbits! Could it be true?


I'm sure there's some catch—perhaps the plant can't handle the humidity of the South? I've never seen this sunny flower around here, though it is said to be suitable for zones 4a-8a. Even without rabbit repelling qualities, the flowers are stunning!

Do you think they run the rabbits out of Paris parks?
Non, pas possible—they were far too nice (flirting).
Bonjour and smiles.

Or, could it be that Leopards Bane keeps the rabbits away?

Do you grow this pretty yellow daisy? If so, please let me know. I'd love to hear about your experience with Leopards Bane and rabbits.

Words and photos by Freda Cameron, Defining Your Home, Garden and Travel. Deer and rabbit resistance varies based upon the animal population and availability of food. All company or product or patented names mentioned are registered trademarks, copyrights, or patents owned by those respective companies or persons.