Welcome to The Bio Dude!
*The plant pictured is not necessarily the plant you will receive, but will be same size and shape. Plants are shipped in nursery pots and may vary slightly in pot size.*
Common Name: Farfugium, Giant Farfugium, Leopard Plant, Giant Leopard Plant, Spotted Leopard Plant, Giant Spotted Leopard Plant, Tractor Seat Plant, Giant Tractor Seat Plant
Scientific Name: Farfugium japonicum 'Giganteum'
These bushy, unique-looking plants have waxy, bowl-shaped leaves that bend slightly inward towards the stem, resembling the seats found on old tractors and bicycles (hence, sometimes being referred to as tractor-seat plants). They are very sturdy and can mound to a moderately large size with age (1 or 2 feet depending on growing conditions) and can have splotches of bright yellow coloration on the leaves (hence, sometimes being called leopard plants).
They are one of the few plants that flower in the fall/winter of the Northern Hemisphere, thus attracting a wide range of pollinators with their bright yellow flowers that come out on tall stems. Its fibrous root system, though shallow and spreading, allows for anchorage and maximum water absorption. *This plant LOVES water!
-Care Recommendations By The Dude-
Best for These Animals:
Small and moderate sized reptiles and amphibians from tropical and temperate climate zones, especially frogs. Also suitable for most larger amphibians and some larger reptiles.
Bio Dude Substrates:
The Bio Dude's Terra Flora (for tropical or rainforest setups)
The Bio Dude's Terra Fauna (for slightly drier but still humid forest environments)
The Bio Dude's Terra Firma (for temperate terrestrial environments with only occasional humidity spikes)
Soil Depth:
Moderate to deep soil.
Lighting:
Low to moderate (or low-level full-spectrum LED/UVB terrarium lighting). Prefers indirect light.
Avoid placing directly under intense heat lamps — leaves can scorch easily.
Humidity & Misting:
Prefers moderate to high humidity (60% – 100%), with higher humidity levels suggested for optimal growth.
Ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Temperature Tolerance & Placement in the Terrarium:
Ideal range: 60–80°F (15.5–27°C), but can take up to 85 degrees.
Avoid prolonged exposure below 60°F (15°C).
Edible & Side Effects if Ingested:
Farfugiums contain protoanemonin and tumorigenic pyrrolizidine alkaloids, meaning they are mildly toxic if ingested and can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Pot Size & Packaging: A single 6" potted farfugium plant is shipped in the pot, wrapped in paper.