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Coltsfoot

Tussilago farfara · Asteraceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant coltsfoot: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Flowering
February to April
Adult size
20 to 40 cm in height
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Very hardy (down to -20°C)
Origin
Europe, Western Asia
Soil type
Moist, clayey, alkaline tolerated

Care

Watering

Coltsfoot appreciates constantly moist soil, especially in spring during flowering and throughout the first year. Once established, it tolerates dry periods well thanks to its deep root system. Water regularly during prolonged drought, especially in pots.

Exposure

This plant prefers sunny or semi-shaded locations. It also accepts shaded areas but will flower less generously. For optimal flowering, choose a spot receiving at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Soil and drainage

Coltsfoot thrives in moist to waterlogged, even compacted soils. Unlike most plants, it tolerates poorly drained and dry soils badly. Adding organic matter at planting will help it establish quickly.

Pruning and maintenance

No pruning is strictly necessary. Remove spent flowers to extend blooming or let them produce seeds. In late summer or autumn, you can cut back the dry foliage to ground level to tidy up before winter.

Fertilizer

Coltsfoot is an undemanding plant requiring only moderate fertilizer. A layer of compost spread on the surface in spring is more than sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen which would promote excessive foliage at the expense of flowering.

Diseases and pests

Coltsfoot is generally robust. Occasionally watch for rust or leaf spots in case of stagnant humidity. Good drainage and adequate airflow are usually enough to prevent these problems. Aphids are rare but possible in spring.

Did you know?

Coltsfoot is one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, well before its leaves emerge, hence its Latin name farfara which would mean 'ancestor' due to its ancestral appearance. Historically, its leaves were widely used in traditional herbal medicine, notably for infusions, symbolizing its importance in European folk culture since antiquity.

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.