Coltsfoot
tussilago farfara
Also known as: ["Coughwort","Son-before-the-father"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant known for its yellow flowers and hoof-shaped leaves, traditionally used in herbal medicine for respiratory ailments.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Tussilago |
| Botanical Name: | Tussilago farfara |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates dappled light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun; suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation with proper light adjustment.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; place near east-facing window for morning light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Avoid overwatering; water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); prefers cooler conditions in summer.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent cool nights; protect from heatwaves.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
By seed or root division; seeds require cold stratification for germination.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect seeds in autumn.
- Cold stratify for 4–6 weeks.
- Sow in spring.
- Or divide roots in early spring.
- Replant divisions immediately.
Best Time: Early spring for root division; autumn for seed sowing (after cold stratification).
Environment
Cool temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C); high humidity; partial shade.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam for root division.
Hormone
Not necessary for root division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Seeds: 2–3 months for germination; root division: roots establish in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, trowel, pots, seed trays, plastic wrap (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; divide roots when plant is dormant; keep seedlings consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves at the base; avoid cutting into the crown of the plant.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune when dry; remove only necessary foliage; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for mature plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water when top inch is dry; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, avoiding foliage; ensure water reaches root zone; allow excess to drain away; water in morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature flowering.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop; susceptible to frost damage in winter.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become leggy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver toxicity from pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Tussilago farfara. Even small amounts can cause significant harm, particularly with repeated exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Tussilago farfara can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential liver toxicity due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. The effects are dose-dependent and may vary based on the amount consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTussilago farfara, commonly known as coltsfoot, contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can cause liver damage upon prolonged or excessive ingestion. The plant's effects are primarily hepatotoxic, leading to cumulative liver injury.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Coltsfoot safe for human consumption?
A: While traditionally used in herbal medicine, it contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities or over long periods.
Q: Does Coltsfoot attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its early-blooming flowers attract bees and butterflies, making it beneficial for pollinators.
Q: Is Coltsfoot considered a weed?
A: Yes, it is often classified as a weed due to its aggressive spreading habit and ability to colonize disturbed areas.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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