Tussilago farfara L.
Colt's-foot
Coltsfoot is a native rhizomatous perennial best known for flowering remarkably early, often from February into April, well before its leaves appear. The solitary, bright yellow, dandelion-like heads sit atop short stems clad in purplish, scale-like bracts; only after flowering do the large, rounded, hoof-shaped leaves (the source of the name) unfurl, grey-felted beneath.
About
Coltsfoot is a native rhizomatous perennial best known for flowering remarkably early, often from February into April, well before its leaves appear. The solitary, bright yellow, dandelion-like heads sit atop short stems clad in purplish, scale-like bracts; only after flowering do the large, rounded, hoof-shaped leaves (the source of the name) unfurl, grey-felted beneath. It spreads by creeping underground stems and can form extensive colonies.
A plant of bare and disturbed ground, it readily colonises clay banks, ditches, stream sides, gravelly tracks, arable land, landslips and waste ground, often where the soil is heavy or freshly exposed. Because it blooms so early, its nectar and pollen are a lifeline for some of the first bees and hoverflies of the year, including solitary bees and honeybees. Its pioneering, soil-binding habit suits rough banks and disturbed ground, though gardeners should note that its vigorous rhizomes make it a determined spreader in cultivated settings.
Also known as
Colts-foot · Coltsfoot
Synonyms
Cineraria farfara · Farfara radiata · Petasites farfara · Tussilago alpestris · Tussilago farfara duplicatolobatum · Tussilago farfara pallida · Tussilago farfara spinulifolia · Tussilago farfara tubulosa · Tussilago generalis · Tussilago radiata · Tussilago ruderalis
Beta — under active development. This catalogue is still being built and accuracy-checked. The information here (including plant identifications, British native status, soil and sun/shade preferences) is provided in good faith for general guidance only and may contain errors or omissions. It must not be relied upon on its own — please confirm details with us before making planting, specification, foraging or purchasing decisions, and never eat or medicinally use any plant based on this catalogue alone, as some species are toxic. To the extent permitted by law, Phoenix Amenity Supplies accepts no liability for any loss arising from use of this information.