Species

Farfugium japonicumJapanese Leopard Plant

13 other cultivars

perennial

Aureomaculatum Leopard Plant

Farfugium japonicum 'Aureomaculatum'

The Story

Plant Bio

Farfugium japonicum 'Aureomaculatum' is a clump-forming perennial with large, rounded, leathery, dark green leaves randomly spotted with yellow. Daisy-like yellow flowers appear in fall.

This cultivar is prized for its bold, spotted foliage that provides excellent texture and color in shady, moist garden areas. It is often called the Leopard Plant.

Uses & Benefits:

Its striking variegated foliage provides year-round visual interest in shaded areas.

Helps suppress weeds and retains soil moisture in shaded garden beds.

Provides cover for beneficial insects and small wildlife.

SpeciesFarfugium japonicumJapanese Leopard Plant

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Consistently moist

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan, Korea, Taiwan

Toxicity

Toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested

Bloom period

Late summer

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seedlings or divisions into prepared soil in early spring
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring for best vigor
Prune dead or damaged leaves as needed to maintain appearance

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil for best results

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Fertilize annually with organic compost or balanced fertilizer

Don't

Avoid overwatering in poorly drained soil ❌
Don’t place in full sun, which can scorch leaves
Refrain from neglecting pruning to remove dead foliage

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with textured foliageUnderstory plant in woodland gardens

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Heucheras Japanese Forest Grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Aureomaculatum Leopard Plant questions

What zones can Aureomaculatum Leopard Plant grow in?

Aureomaculatum 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 Aureomaculatum Leopard Plant deer resistant?

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

When does Aureomaculatum Leopard Plant bloom?

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

Does Aureomaculatum Leopard Plant need full sun?

Aureomaculatum Leopard Plant does best in part shade.