Species

Farfugium japonicumJapanese Leopard Plant

13 other cultivars

perennial

Kagami Jishi Japanese Leopard Plant

Farfugium japonicum 'Kagami Jishi'

The Story

Plant Bio

Farfugium japonicum 'Kagami Jishi' is a perennial evergreen groundcover distinguished by its large, rounded, glossy green leaves with a striking silver pattern, and clusters of yellow flowers in late autumn to early winter.

This cultivar is prized for its decorative foliage that mimics a mirror-like pattern, adding ornamental value especially in shaded garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen foliage with textured leaves, adds visual interest year-round.

Drought tolerant once established, suitable for shaded areas with poor soil.

Supports insect life and provides ground cover to reduce soil erosion.

SpeciesFarfugium japonicumJapanese Leopard Plant

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate, prefers moist soil

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Fall – Late fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-prepared soil
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth
Provide partial shade for optimal foliage color
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains moist and provide partial shade for best foliage color.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Divide in early spring to promote healthy growth
Fertilize lightly in spring

Don't

Avoid full sun which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils
Refrain from over-fertilizing

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded rock gardenMoist woodland borderCool shaded groundcover

Companion Plants

Hosta AstilbeFerns Heuchera Trillium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Kagami Jishi Japanese Leopard Plant questions

What zones can Kagami Jishi Japanese Leopard Plant grow in?

Kagami Jishi Japanese 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 Kagami Jishi Japanese Leopard Plant deer resistant?

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

When does Kagami Jishi Japanese Leopard Plant bloom?

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

Does Kagami Jishi Japanese Leopard Plant need full sun?

Kagami Jishi Japanese Leopard Plant does best in part shade.