Farfugium japonicum

RHS Plant Profile
leopard plant

Other common names

spotted colt's foot

Synonyms

Farfugium tussilagineum
Ligularia tussilaginea

Herbaceous Perennial

A slightly tender clump-forming evergreen perennial to 60cm in height, with large, slightly fleshy, glossy rich green, kidney-shaped leaves. Branched clusters of daisy-like bright yellow flowers 4cm across are borne in late autumn and early winter

Position

Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H3

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Farfugium are rhizomatous evergreen perennials with simple, rounded or ovate leaves and branched clusters of daisy-like bright yellow flowers in late autumn and early winter
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows well in most fertile soils but will require protection from cold, drying winds. In colder climes provide a deep winter mulch

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in winter or spring or by division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Sub-tropical
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Ground cover
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Conservatory and greenhouse

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

Generally disease-free