About Farfugium japonicum (L.) Kitam.
Farfugium japonicum (L.) Kitam. is a rhizomatous evergreen perennial that grows in loose clumps, reaching around 60 cm (24 inches) in both height and width. It produces large, round or kidney-shaped leaves that have a slightly fleshy texture. In autumn and winter, it bears loose clusters of daisy-like yellow flowers that measure 2.5–5 cm (1–2 inches) across. This plant contains tumorigenic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. It is cultivated as an ornamental plant for use in garden plantings and containers. Variegated cultivars of this species are often used to add light to shade garden settings. Farfugium japonicum var. giganteum is a selected form that has very large leaves. Some cultivars have large, leathery shiny green leaves that are variegated with irregular creamy white or yellow markings; these leaves measure 4-10 inches (10.2-25.4 cm) across, have wavy or toothed margins, and are held up on long stalks. Other cultivars have solid green leaves without white or yellow markings. The cultivar 'Aureomaculatum' has received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. It is hardy in coastal and mild regions, but requires protection from cold winds.
