White Butterbur
petasites albus
Also known as: ["Butterbur","Sweet Coltsfoot"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with large, heart-shaped leaves and white to pale pink flowers that bloom in early spring before the leaves appear.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Petasites |
| Botanical Name: | Petasites albus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: moist garden beds or near water features
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with organic matter; tolerates heavy clay if well-drained.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing only dead or diseased foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light but thrives with dappled sunlight or morning sun only.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from shade; avoid direct afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; ideal for shaded garden spots or north-facing indoor locations.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; prefers shade; morning light is best.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
moist, rich, humusy soil with good drainage
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil stays moist but not waterlogged; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures; prefers 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates cold but avoid extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid heat stress; maintain moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize sparingly; focus on spring growth; stop in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Division or root cuttings; division is the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps in spring.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
- Water well.
- Root cuttings can be taken in late summer and planted horizontally in soil.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Moist, shaded environment with consistent humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Medium
Rich, moist soil with good drainage; can be propagated directly in garden soil or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for root cuttings.
Timeline
Division establishes quickly within a growing season; root cuttings may take 4–6 weeks to root.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, garden trowel, pruning shears.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has roots and buds.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves at the base; avoid cutting into the crown of the plant.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; remove only dead/damaged leaves.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and preventing overcrowding.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom but avoid waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat; browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below freezing.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may stagnate in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure good drainage.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Petasites albus, which can induce severe liver damage. The toxicity can be rapidly progressive, leading to fatal outcomes if untreated.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDogs are susceptible to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Petasites albus, which can cause acute or chronic liver toxicity. The compounds interfere with liver cell regeneration and can lead to severe hepatic dysfunction.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPetasites albus contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause liver damage upon ingestion. Chronic exposure may lead to severe liver fibrosis and even cirrhosis. The plant's toxicity is systemic, affecting metabolic processes and cellular integrity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Petasites albus toxic to humans?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic and should be handled with care.
Q: Does White Butterbur attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its early blooming flowers.
Q: Is this plant suitable for shade gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in partial to full shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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