Farfugium japonicum
perennial

Japanese Leopard Plant

Farfugium japonicum

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Farfugium japonicum is a perennial evergreen plant with large, rounded, leathery leaves that form a low rosette, producing clusters of small, bright yellow flowers in late autumn and winter. This species is valued for its tolerance of shady, moist environments and its striking, glossy foliage that remains attractive throughout the year.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides lush, textured foliage year-round, adding a vibrant touch to shaded gardens.
Practical UsesThrives in wet soils, helping to stabilize moisture-prone areas.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local insect populations and provides cover for small birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or divisions into well-draining soil in early spring
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
  3. Mist foliage during dry periods to prevent stress
  4. Place in partial shade for best growth
  5. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
  6. Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor

Pro Tip

Provide consistent moisture and shaded conditions for optimal growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Mulch annually to conserve moisture
  • Divide plants every few years to prevent overcrowding

Don't

  • Avoid direct full sun which can scorch leaves ❌
  • Don’t let soil dry out completely
  • Avoid heavy, poorly-drained soils without amendment

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Mulch
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenMoisture-loving borderPlanting beneath trees

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Ligularia 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 β€” 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 late fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Japanese Leopard Plant need full sun?

Japanese Leopard Plant does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Japanese Leopard Plant with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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