Shippon: A Self-Watering Plant

Get prepared to be blown away by the most "kawaii" item ever! Shippon is a tiny self-watering system that is incredibly cute. As far as I know, they are unfortunately only available in Japan.

As shown in this picture, there are three variations; a monkey, a cat, and a dog. Three different types of plants correlate to the three different animals. The dog grows clover, while the cat grows wild strawberries. And I believe the monkey carries basil.

The picture below demonstrates how it works. Step one is to put the peat soil pellet in the small basket on the animal's back. Step two would be to place the seeds in the soil and add water to the cup. Water is carried to the basket holding the seeds through each animal's tail. Step three is to watch and wait for approximately two weeks until you have a lovely little new plant! It allows you to have a new appreciation for nature by giving you the chance to sow your own seeds and later harvest your basil, wild strawberries, or clovers, if you chose.