Leopard Plant

Farfugium japonicum

Physical Characteristics

Farfugium japonicum is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from November to December. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - C. and S. Japan.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Stem Edible Uses: Leaf stems - cooked[46, 61, 177]. The leaf stems are boiled in water to remove a bitter taste, the outer peel is removed and they are then added to salads, soups etc[183].

Medicinal Uses

Antidote Poultice The leaves are antidote[218]. They are taken internally to treat fish poisoning and externally to treat lacquer poisoning[218]. They are also applied to suppurating abscesses and pox[218].

Known Hazards

None known