Also known as False Butterbur
Woolly Butterbur (Petasites spurius) is a vigorous, spreading perennial with large, textured leaves. It thrives in moist, shady conditions, forming dense groundcover.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial to full shade
25% intensity
Thrives in shaded areas, especially in hotter climates. Can tolerate some sun if soil remains moist.
Regular watering
75% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, but avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures. Protect from extreme heat and frost.
Low to moderate
25% intensity
Feed sparingly in spring with a balanced fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can reduce flowering.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Woolly Butterbur regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly in cooler months when growth slows, but never let the soil dry out completely.
Prune Woolly Butterbur after flowering to tidy its appearance and prevent excessive spreading. Remove dead or damaged foliage at any time. Deadheading can prevent seed formation, which helps control its vigorous nature.
Propagate Woolly Butterbur by division of its rhizomes in early spring or autumn. Simply dig up the plant and divide the root mass into sections, ensuring each section has at least one bud. Replant immediately.
Repot Woolly Butterbur every 2-3 years in spring to refresh the soil and manage its vigorous rhizomatous growth. Choose a pot that allows ample room for expansion. Use a well-draining potting mix enriched with compost.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Woolly Butterbur (Petasites spurius)
Where Woolly Butterbur (Petasites spurius) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Petasites |
| Species | Petasites spurius |
Similar in genus Petasites
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
