Leopard Plant (Farfugium japonicum)

Farfugium japonicum is a clumping herbaceous perennial in the daisy family. Daisy-like, yellow flowers 1- to 2-in. across bloom atop thick, mostly leafless stalks that rise to 30 inches above the glossy, leathery, kidney-shaped, dark green foliage in late summer to fall. Although Farfugium does produce flowers, its best ornamental feature may be the huge leaves (12 inches or more across) that form a basal clump to 2-ft. tall. Leaves are evergreen in warm winter climates, but will die to the ground when temperatures fall to 20°F. It is from the shape of the leaves that Farfugium japonicum gets its other common name -- tractor seat plant.

Farfugium performs best in shade, with leaves wilting and burning easily in the sun. Foliage needs protection from strong winds.

Soils should be humusy, rich, and moist, and though this species tolerates drier soils than other members of this genus, it will do best if it receives regular deep waterings in hot summers. Even with adequate moisture, leaf wilting may occur in hot summer climates, particularly when the plant is exposed to too much sun.

Consider using Farfugium around ponds or boggy areas, along streams, or in shade gardens in either mass plantings or small groups in zones 7a to 9b.

Propagate by dividing plants in spring or sowing seeds in a coldframe or greenhouse in winter or early spring.

Slugs and snails are occasional pests. They are resistant to deer, heavy shade, and wet soil.

Emerging Leaves (Wake County,NC) - Early Spring
Cathy Dewitt
CC BY 4.0

Kagami Jishi' Flowers - Fall - Wake Co. - NC
Cathy DeWitt
CC BY-NC-ND 4.0

Cultivars to consider:

‘Argentea variegata’ is a slow-grower that reaches 24-in. tall with creamy variegated leaves 6- to 10-in across.

‘Aureomaculata’ is known for deep green glossy foliage with bright yellow spots. It is up to the viewer whether the spots are appealing vs looking like bleach was spilled on the leaves.

‘Giganteum’ creates a dramatic focal point plant for small spaces reaching 3- to 4-ft. tall and 2-to 3-ft. wide. The bold foliage holds its own in containers as a single specimen.

‘Last Dance’ is a hybrid of two Farfugium species. It has leaves with sharp points and glossy foliage rather than the smoothly lobed foliage of the other cultivars.

‘Bad Hair Day’ and ‘Crispatum’ both have fluffy, curled edges that give rise to the common name “parsley ligularia.”

By Kathryn Copley, Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteer, Brunswick County, NC
For more information on gardening in Brunswick County, please call the Brunswick County Cooperative Extension Office, 910.253.2610.

👉 Click here for a printable pdf version.

SOURCES:

Farfugium japonicum | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
Farfugiumjaponicum var. giganteum | Plant Finder, Missouri Botanical Garden
Leopard Plant | Clemson University Cooperative Extension, Home and Garden Information Center