Green leopard plant
farfugium japonicum
Also known as: ["Leopard plant","Zebra plant"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Japan, known for its large, rounded leaves with distinctive venation and yellow daisy-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Farfugium |
| Botanical Name: | Farfugium japonicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shady garden bed or container in a protected area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter like peat or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to direct sun to prevent scorching; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust placement based on light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct midday sun; provide dappled light in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
moist, rich, well-draining soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid compacted soil; ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Protect from frost; avoid drafts; maintain moderate temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to fall)
Avoid overfertilizing to prevent leaf burn; fertilize after watering to prevent root shock; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peaty potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove yellow or dead leaves at the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and encourage new growth; shape as needed.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; replace with fresh soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer); reduce or stop in fall–winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicFarfugium japonicum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicFarfugium japonicum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicFarfugium japonicum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in landscaping and horticulture without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Farfugium japonicum require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full shade and can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Q: How often should I water Farfugium japonicum?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Can Farfugium japonicum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can thrive indoors in bright, indirect light with adequate humidity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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