Petasites hybridus is an eye-catching plant which pushes up flower stems in March, before the appearance of the foliage in May. Flowers emerge from strong, stout stems up to 40cm tall and are pale pink in colour. They provide a valuable, early source of sustenance for pollinators. For a brief time, stems and leaves appear alongside one another, after which the leaves continue to emerge and expand as the flower stems fade. Foliage is very large and has a rhubarb-like appearance, making them fantastic for a jungle-like impact in damper areas of the garden. Petasites hybridus' common name, Butterbur, is linked to the fact that leaves were often used to wrap up butter. Other names include Bog Rhubarb - due to its fondness for damp ground and its appearance. A native of Europe and North Asia, plants will readily naturalise in the UK if given the right conditions. Prefers moist, fertile soils, and is often found growing wild near streams or rivers. Reaches a height of 1m to 1.5m and spreads by underground rhizomes up to 1m or more. An herbaceous, hardy perennial.
Flower and Foliage Months
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Foliage Month
Flowering Month