Botanical Name: Farfugium japonicum
Family: Asteraceae
Kingdom: Plantae
Order: Asterales
Tribe: Senecioneae
Genus: Farfugium
Species: F. japonicum
Synonyms: Tussilago japonica
Common Names: Leopard Plant, Green leopard plant or t Tractor seat plant
Habitat: Farfugium japonicum is native to E. Asia – C. and S. Japan It grows on rocky cliffs near sea shores. In the long grass of streamside meadows. Lower elevational forests, grassy slopes and valleys in China.
Description:
Farfugium japonicum is a rhizomatous evergreen perennial, growing in a loose clump about 60 cm (24 in) tall and wide, with large round or kidney-shaped leaves that are slightly fleshy in texture. Daisy-like yellow flowers, 2.5–5 cm (1–2 in) across, are borne in loose clusters in autumn and winter. 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.
Cultivation:
Farfugium japonicum is grown as an ornamental plant for garden planting and containers. The variegated cultivars are often used to brighten shade garden settings. Farfugium japonicum var. giganteum is a very large leaved selection. Some cultivars have shiny green leaves variegated with irregular creamy white or yellow markings, which are leathery and large, 4-10 in (10.2-25.4 cm) across, with wavy or toothed margins, held aloft on long stalks. Others are an even green without the white or yellow markings.
The cultivar ‘Aureomaculatum’ has gained the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. It is hardy in coastal or mild areas, but requires protection from cold winds.
Edible Uses: Leaf stems – cooked and eaten. 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.
Medicinal Uses:
The leaves are antidote. They are taken internally to treat fish poisoning and externally to treat lacquer poisoning. They are also applied to suppurating abscesses and pox.
Disclaimer : The information presented herein is intended for educational purposes only. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplement, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.
Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Farfugium_japonicum
https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Farfugium+japonicum
