Leopard Plant

(Farfugium japonicum)

Leopard Plant (Farfugium japonicum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Farfugium japonicum, commonly known as Leopard Plant, is an evergreen perennial herb native to stream banks and seashores in Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and China. It forms a loose clump about 60 cm (24 in) tall and wide, with glossy, leathery, large round or kidney-shaped leaves that are slightly fleshy in texture. The daisy-like yellow flowers, 2.5–5 cm (1–2 in) across, are borne in loose clusters atop tall stems in autumn and winter, adding a splash of color during the cooler months. The flowers are moderately showy and attract pollinators.

Leopard Plant is valued for its bold foliage and shade tolerance, making it a popular choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and container plantings. It is also used in Asian gardens for its aesthetic appeal and textural contrast. While it is hardy in coastal or mild areas, it does require protection from cold winds and harsh frosts. It thrives in part shade or full shade, preferring consistently moist soil with good drainage. Leopard Plant is relatively low maintenance but can be susceptible to slugs and snails, which may damage the leaves. It is not typically invasive but should be monitored in optimal growing conditions to ensure it does not spread too aggressively.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type:
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Stream banks and seashores in Japan, Korea, and Taiwan

Other Names

Common Names: Green Leopard Plant, Tractor Seat Plant, Leopardplant, Leopardenpflanze, Tigertass, Da Wu Feng Cao, Tsuwabuki

Scientific Names: , Farfugium japonicum, Farfugium giganteum, Ligularia tussilaginea, Senecio kaempferi, Farfugium japonicum var. formosanum, Ligularia kaempferi, Ligularia tussilaginea var. formosana, Farfugium japonicum subsp. japonicum, Tussilago japonica

GBIF Accepted Name: Farfugium japonicum (L.) Kitam.