Pyrenean butterbur
Petasites pyrenaicus · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant pyrenean butterbur: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- January to March (winter)
- Mature size
- 16–24 inches tall × 24–32 inches wide
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Zone 4–8 (very hardy)
- Origin
- Pyrenees and mountainous regions of southwestern Europe
- Soil type
- Rich, moist, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist, especially during the growing season and winter flowering period. Reduce watering in summer when the foliage naturally dries out. Avoid waterlogging, which can cause rhizome rot.
Light
Plant in part shade or dappled shade. This plant appreciates spots receiving little direct sunlight. It thrives well under deciduous trees, which is ideal since it flowers before they leaf out.
Soil
Choose soil rich in organic matter, deep and well-draining despite moisture retention. Improve your planting area with well-rotted compost. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is optimal.
Fertilizing
Apply rich compost or balanced fertilizer in spring after flowering, as new growth resumes. An annual application of organic matter on the soil surface is generally sufficient to feed the plant.
Pruning and Cleanup
No pruning needed. Simply remove dead leaves and faded flowers to encourage new foliage. Allow stems to dry at the end of summer to prevent disease.
Diseases and Pests
Generally robust and rarely affected by pests. With excess moisture, watch for rhizome rot or root disease. Good air circulation and adequate drainage prevent most problems.
Did you know?
Petasites pyrenaicus flowers in the depths of winter, when few other plants dare bloom: its small cream-pink flowers appear as early as January in the Pyrenees, earning it the nickname 'winter heliotrope.' This early flowering once made it a precious plant for country gardeners who sought it out as an early herald of spring.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.