perennial

Japanese Leopard Plant

Farfugium japonicum 'Basho Ogi'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan, Korea, Taiwan

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Farfugium japonicum 'Basho Ogi' is a bold, clump-forming perennial prized for its very large, solid green, kidney-shaped leaves that create a tropical effect. In fall, it produces tall stalks of yellow, daisy-like flowers. This cultivar is distinguished by its immense, glossy, banana-leaf-like foliage, making it a dramatic architectural plant for shady, moist areas of the garden.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, bold foliage year-round, adding texture and color to shaded gardens.

Resilient to deer and rabbit browsing, requiring minimal pest control.

Supports shade-loving insects and provides habitat for small wildlife.

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 prepared soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity, taking 6 weeks to root.
Place in partial shade with well-draining, moist loam soil.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during growing season.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains moist and provide filtered shade for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature
Divide every 2-3 years to maintain vigor
Use filtered light in hot climates

Don't

Avoid overwatering causing root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates
Skip fertilizing during dormancy
Don’t let soil dry out completely

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
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 bold foliageUnderplanting for shaded garden bedsContainer plant for shaded patios

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Astilbe Heuchera Japanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Leopard Plant questions

What zones can Japanese Leopard Plant grow in?

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 Japanese Leopard Plant deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Leopard Plant bloom?

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

Does Japanese Leopard Plant need full sun?

Japanese Leopard Plant does best in part shade.