Water
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogging as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is less active.
Also known as Sweet-Coltsfoot
Winter Heliotrope (Petasites pyrenaicus) is an invasive perennial with fragrant, lilac-pink flowers appearing in late winter to early spring before its large, heart-shape
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade to Full Shade
25% intensity
Thrives in shaded areas, tolerates some morning sun.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers moist soil, water when top inch is dry.
Loam, Sandy loam, Clay loam
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, hardy in most temperate climates.
Low
25% intensity
Benefits from a light feed in spring, not essential.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can be hepatotoxic if ingested in large quantities. Generally considered low risk for casual contact.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogging as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is less active.
Pruning is primarily done to control spread and remove dead or damaged foliage. Cut back stems after flowering or in late autumn to tidy the plant and prevent self-seeding. Remove any unsightly leaves promptly.
Propagate by division of rhizomes in early spring or autumn. Simply dig up the plant and divide the fleshy, creeping rhizomes into sections, ensuring each section has at least one bud. Replant immediately.
Repotting is rarely necessary as Petasites pyrenaicus is a vigorous spreader. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Use a large pot with good drainage and fresh, rich potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Winter Heliotrope (Petasites pyrenaicus)
Where Winter Heliotrope (Petasites pyrenaicus) 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 pyrenaicus |
Similar in genus Petasites
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
