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Leopard Plant Wikimedia Commons
Asteraceae

Leopard Plant

Farfugium japonicum

Individuality and uniqueness.

Family
Asteraceae
Genus
Farfugium
Native to
Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan
Bloom season
Fall, Winter
Type
herbaceous perennial
Height
1-2 ft
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Soil
moist, rich, well-drained
Water
moderate to high
Hardiness
7-10
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • The cultivar 'Aureomaculatum' has gold-spotted leaves that inspired the leopard common name.
  • It is highly prized in Japanese gardens, where it is known as tsuwabuki.
  • Unlike most Asteraceae members, it thrives in deep shade and moist conditions.
  • In Japan, the young leaf stalks are eaten as a spring vegetable after boiling to remove bitterness.
  • Its bold, kidney-shaped evergreen leaves can reach up to twelve inches across.

Color meanings

0

uniqueness

1

individuality

2

boldness

Uses

  • shade gardens
  • Japanese gardens
  • ground cover
  • container plants
  • culinary (in Japan)