Pyrenean Butterbur
petasites pyrenaicus
Also known as: ["Pyrenean Petasites","Butterdock"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to the Pyrenees, known for its large, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of small, pale flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["large foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Petasites |
| Botanical Name: | Petasites pyrenaicus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shady garden bed or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-drained but moisture-retentive; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-drained soil; prefers organic matter like compost or leaf mold.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; more frequently if controlling spread.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing old or damaged leaves rather than heavy cutting back.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates bright indirect light but prefers protection from harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves; place in dappled shade or filtered light for best growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide shade during peak hours; monitor leaf color for signs of stress.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry 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 good drainage, maintain moisture, enrich with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); can tolerate cooler conditions but avoid prolonged frost.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter to avoid stimulating weak growth.
Propagation
Methods
Division or root cuttings; division is the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into sections with roots attached.
- Replant immediately in prepared soil.
- Water well and maintain moisture.
Best Time: Early spring before new growth begins or late summer after flowering.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Rich, moist soil with good drainage; can be propagated in a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone can be used for root cuttings to encourage faster rooting.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; root cuttings: roots in 4–8 weeks, full establishment in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or spade, gloves, pots or planting site, watering can.
Quick Tips
Divide in early spring; ensure each division has roots; water well after planting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back yellowed or dead leaves at the base; thin out overcrowded stems to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance; control spread if the plant becomes invasive.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Identify dead/damaged leaves, sterilize tools, prune at base, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any dead roots, repot in fresh soil mix with good drainage, water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and controlling spread.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil, trim roots if needed, 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 even moisture distribution to the root zone; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
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 better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may become discolored or damaged; growth slows or halts; roots can be susceptible to freezing in poorly insulated soil.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; move potted plants indoors during freezes; ensure soil is well-drained to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; plant may become more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer, dilute properly, fertilize during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the hepatotoxic effects of pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Petasites pyrenaicus, which can lead to severe liver damage and failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Petasites pyrenaicus are toxic to dogs, causing liver damage and potential liver failure upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPetasites pyrenaicus contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause liver damage upon ingestion. Chronic exposure may lead to severe liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Petasites pyrenaicus toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How difficult is it to care for?
A: It has moderate care difficulty, requiring consistent moisture and partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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