Farfugium japonicum Gigantea

The  Farfugium japonicum 'Gigantea' (or var. giganteum) is remarkable for its growth and the size of its leaves. This very beautiful rhizomatous and evergreen perennial plant is a close relative of the Ligularia that particularly enjoys shaded areas and humid environments, in not too cold climates. It forms opulent clumps composed of immense round leaves whose dark green blade shines like a mirror. It blooms in October, forming some clusters of flowers similar to small yellow daisies. It is a somewhat delicate plant, interesting for bringing a beautiful exotic and lush touch to the wet areas of the garden, for example at the edge of a pond. It will be particularly enhanced in a trough or a large, wider-than-high pot.

The Farfugium japonicum is native to Japan, coastal areas, bordering watercourses. Its underground rhizome is not very invasive. The Farfugium japonicum var. giganteum looks very similar to it, but its growth is more significant and it develops immense glossy leaves. It is a perennial in large, slightly loose clumps, tall and wide from 80 cm at maturity, or even more in optimal conditions. It spreads slowly but surely if the location suits it. It bears on long, sturdy petioles large tomentose leaves during their growth, which become thick and glossy like leather at maturity, somewhat resembling those of water lilies. Each leaf, measuring up to 45 cm in diameter, is marked with deep veins and has a turned-up edge. From October, some floral stems rise above the foliage, adorned with yellow capitula, 2 to 3 cm wide, grouped in loose panicles.

The Farfugium japonicum and its varieties are little known and not widely distributed in our country, despite the beauty of their foliage. They are nevertheless very useful for bringing an exotic and original touch to shaded areas, even late in the season. 'Gigantea', more opulent, is no more invasive than the others. It fears temperatures below -10°C. As it loves humidity and dislikes the sun, it can be planted not far from a pond, in a humid woodland. It can be associated with Snowdrops, Solomon's Seals, Ligularias, Rodgersias, Actaeas, but also with already well-established peonies. In a Japanese garden, under the trees, the shape and brilliance of the leaves, the yellow brightness of the flowers, and the matt grey of the stones will form a very graphic composition. It also grows very well in pots for wintering in a cold greenhouse, while it will spend the summer season on a shaded terrace.

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