Species

Farfugium japonicumJapanese Leopard Plant

13 other cultivars

perennial

Giant Leopard Plant

Farfugium japonicum 'giganteum Marco'

The Story

Plant Bio

Large, bold leaves provide a dramatic foliage effect; ideal for shade gardens.

This cultivar has larger leaves compared to typical species and offers great ornamental value.

Uses & Benefits:

Farfugium japonicum 'Giganteum Marco' offers bold, lush foliage that enhances shaded garden areas, providing visual interest year-round.

Its groundcover nature suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture, reducing maintenance needs.

Supports pollinators and beneficial insects with its foliage and habitat.

SpeciesFarfugium japonicumJapanese Leopard Plant

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Consistently moist

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan, Korea, Taiwan

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Fall – Early fall

In flower about 12 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck mature rhizomes into well-drained soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings or division in spring or fall for propagation.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune dead leaves and stems in late winter or early spring.

Pro Tip

Use shaded or semi-shaded areas with rich, moist soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods 🌱
Apply organic mulch to conserve soil moisture
Remove dead or damaged leaves regularly

Don't

Avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full sun, as it prefers shade or partial shade
Refrain from over-fertilizing, which can harm the plant

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland garden with lush, green groundcoverMoist border with vanilla-scented foliageContainer planting for shaded patios

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Astilbe Heuchera Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Giant Leopard Plant questions

What zones can Giant Leopard Plant grow in?

Giant 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 Giant Leopard Plant deer resistant?

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

When does Giant Leopard Plant bloom?

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

Does Giant Leopard Plant need full sun?

Giant Leopard Plant does best in part shade.