Native Coltsfoot Rootstock

About Coltsfoot – Petasites frigidus
Coltsfoot is a resilient and fascinating early spring bloomer that brightens forest edges and damp shady spots with its cheerful yellow flowers—often pushing up through snow before any foliage appears. Native to cool regions of North America, Petasites frigidus is prized for its large, hoof-shaped leaves and its ability to establish a dense, ornamental ground cover in wet soils. It has been used traditionally for respiratory relief, particularly in teas or syrups prepared from dried flowers or leaves, though modern herbalists recommend cautious use.

Where Can You Grow Coltsfoot?
Ideal for Zones 3–8, coltsfoot thrives in moist, shaded areas—along streams, pond edges, woodland gardens, or shaded ditches. It is particularly useful in permaculture systems where erosion control and ground cover are desired in challenging, damp areas.

History and Historical Uses
Coltsfoot has a long-standing role in traditional medicine across Europe and North America. Historically smoked or steeped as a tea, the plant was used to soothe coughs and lung complaints. The Latin genus name Petasites refers to a broad-brimmed hat, a nod to its oversized leaves. Today, due to concerns over pyrrolizidine alkaloids in some species, internal use is approached with caution and preferably under expert supervision.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 7–8: Thrives with minimal care in moist, shaded soil.
Zones 5–6: Mulch in winter; protect from drying winds.
Zones 3–4: Hardy and reliable with snow cover or mulch for protection.

How to Grow and Harvest Coltsfoot
Planting: Best propagated by rhizome division or transplanting seedlings in spring or autumn.
Soil: Prefers rich, consistently moist soil; tolerates clay and boggy ground.
Sun/Shade: Partial to full shade.
Maintenance: Spreads quickly; control with barriers or by thinning.
Harvesting: Gather flowers early in spring; leaves can be harvested later in the season.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply
Seeds can be collected after flowering when the seedheads resemble fluffy dandelions. Sow immediately or store in a cool, dry place. For consistent results, vegetative propagation through root divisions is preferred.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)