Huge leaves!  The name of this awesome plant is Telanthophora grandifolia, although it might as well be called Dinosaur Dinner!  This oversized relative of daisies and sunflowers certainly looks like something dinosaurs would munch on.  A native to cloud forests of southern Mexico, it grows to 18 feet tall, with massive leaves about 2 feet long.  It's sure to add a wacky, tropical look to your garden.  This is an extremely rare plant, and fresh seeds are rarely seen for sale.

Telanthophora grandifolia, sometimes called the Giant Groundsel, is an evergreen plant that takes on a palm-like shape.  Here in San Francisco it grows to 18 feet tall, but you may prune it to 4 or 5 feet tall if you wish, and it will make a low, leafy shrub.  The scalloped leaves tend to average 18-22 inches long, although the largest i've seen was as long as my arm!  The stems of the new growth have cool "stubble", with big nubs that feel soft to the touch.  In winter, and occasionally other times of the year, the plant makes massive flower clusters up to 2 feet across.  The bright yellow clusters appear at the top of each branch, adding nice splashes of winter color.  This is considered a non-invasive species.

Telanthophora grandifolia comes from mid-elevations in Mexico where summer temperatures can get in the mid 80s (29°C).  I have no information on how much heat it can take, but it's certainly worth a try in warmer climates like Florida.  I don't know if it has much frost tolerance.  My guess is that it can take down to the mid-20s (-3°C), with new growth sprouting from the base.  For best results, protect it from frost.  It can handle full sun along the cool Pacific coast, but i recommend giving it some afternoon shade, especially in warmer areas.  Since it comes from cloud forests, it does not need a lot of sun to thrive.  It does need ample water.  Well-draining soil is preferred.  The plant might not thrive in very dry air - over about 40% humidity is recommended.

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Germination tips for this plant