Farfugium japonicum Gigantea

The Farfugium japonicum 'Gigantea' (or var. giganteum) is remarkable for its development and the size of its leaves. This very beautiful rhizomatous and evergreen perennial plant is a close relative of ligularias, which particularly appreciates shaded places and humid environments, in not too cold climates. It forms opulent clusters composed of immense round leaves, the dark green lamina of which shines like a mirror. It blooms in October, forming a few clusters of flowers similar to small yellow daisies. It is a somewhat sensitive plant, interesting for adding a beautiful exotic and lush touch to wet areas of the garden, for example at the edge of a pond. It will be particularly enhanced in a basin or a large pot wider than it is tall.

The Farfugium japonicum is native to Japan, coastal areas bordering watercourses. Its underground rhizome is not very invasive. The Farfugium japonicum var. giganteum closely resembles it, but its development is more significant and it develops immense glossy leaves. It is a perennial that forms large, somewhat loose clumps, tall and wide, reaching 80 cm (32in) at maturity, or even more in optimal conditions. It spreads slowly but steadily if the place suits it. It bears on long, sturdy petioles large tomentose leaves during their growth, which become thick and shiny like leather when mature, somewhat resembling those of water lilies. Each leaf, measuring up to 45 cm (18in) in diameter, is marked with deep veins and has a turned-up edge. From October, a few flowering stems rise above the foliage, adorned with yellow heads, 2 to 3 cm (1in) wide, grouped in loose panicles.

The Farfugium japonicum and its varieties are little known and not widely distributed in our region, despite the beauty of their foliage. However, they are very useful for adding an exotic and original touch to shaded areas, even late in the season. 'Gigantea', being more opulent, is no more invasive than the others. It fears temperatures below -10°C (14°F). As it loves humidity and dislikes the sun, it can be planted near a pond, in a damp woodland. It can be paired with Galanthus, Solomon's seals, ligularias, rodgersias, Actaea, but also with well-established peonies. In a Japanese garden, under trees, the shape and brilliance of the leaves, the yellow brightness of the flowers and the matte grey of stones will form a graphic composition. It also grows very well in pots to overwinter in a cold greenhouse, while spending the summer on a shady terrace.

The Japanese consume the spring leaves as cooked vegetables, as well as the buds and flowers in tempura. They also make a liqueur with the flower buds and flowers.