perennial

Leopard Plant

Farfugium japonicum 'Bad Hair Day'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Consistently moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan, Korea, Taiwan

Toxicity

Toxic to cats, dogs, and horses

The Story

Plant Bio

A clump-forming, evergreen perennial native to East Asia, known for its large, rounded, glossy leaves and stalks of yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in late fall. Distinguished by its unique, kidney-shaped leaves with extremely ruffled, curled, and finely cut margins, creating a dramatic texture resembling a head of messy hair.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, bold foliage year-round, ideal for shaded garden beds.

Helps suppress weeds in shaded areas, reduces soil erosion.

Supports insects and pollinators with its nectar.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-draining soil
Keep soil consistently moist to promote growth
Mist cuttings regularly for root development
Place in partial shade for optimal foliage color
Mulch around plants to retain moisture
Watch for pests and treat with organic remedies if needed

Pro Tip

Provide partial shade and moist, well-drained soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to maintain soil moisture and suppress weeds
Divide every 2-3 years to rejuvenate

Don't

Avoid overexposing to full sun ☀️
Do not let soil dry out completely
Avoid heavy, compacted soils

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenMoist border with bold foliage

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Astilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Leopard Plant questions

What zones can Leopard Plant grow in?

Leopard Plant is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Leopard Plant deer resistant?

Yes — Leopard Plant is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Leopard Plant bloom?

Leopard Plant typically blooms in fall through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Leopard Plant need full sun?

Leopard Plant does best in part shade.