Coltsfoot Tussilago farfara
ABOUT
Tussilago farfara, commonly known as coltsfoot, is a perennial herbaceous plant with a unique appearance due to its flowers and leaves developing at different times. The flowers are one of the first signs of spring, emerging before the foliage. They are bright yellow and daisy-like, with numerous narrow ray florets surrounding a central cluster of disc florets on a singular, scaly stem. The blooms resemble a small sunflower or a large dandelion head. After flowering, the stem dies back and heart-shaped leaves appear on long, grooved petioles. These leaves are green and can have a slightly purplish hue on the underside. The leaf surface is often covered in a white, woolly fuzz, especially when young and less so as they age. The contrast between the yellow flowers and the large green leaves that follow is one of its distinguishing characteristics. Coltsfoot has a creeping underground root system which allows it to spread and colonalize areas, and the plant can often be found growing in dense patches.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Coltsfoot, Foal's Foot, Horsehoof, Bull's Foot, Butterbur, Coughwort, Farfara, Fieldhove, Donnhove.
Common names
Farfara radiata Gilib., Tussilago alpestris Gaudin, Tussilago umbertina Bubani, Homogyne alpina Cass.
ToxicityTo humans
Coltfoot is a plant that contains toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). These compounds can be hepatotoxic, meaning they can damage the liver. Chronic ingestion of plant parts containing these alkaloids can lead to hepatic veno-occlusive disease, which is characterized by the obstruction of small veins in the liver. Symptoms of poisoning may include liver damage, abdominal pain, ascites, and in severe cases, liver failure. Continued consumption can potentially lead to liver cancer. As such, while coltsfoot has been used traditionally for medicinal purposes, caution is advised in its use and it should not be consumed in large quantities or for extended periods of time.
To pets
Coltsfoot poses a similar risk to pets as it does to humans due to its content of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). These toxins can cause liver damage in animals if consumed in significant quantities or over an extended period. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include lethargy, appetite loss, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), abdominal fluid buildup (ascites), and signs of liver failure. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic liver dysfunction and has the potential to induce liver tumors. Pet owners should prevent their animals from consuming coltsfoot and seek veterinary care if accidental ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Eurasia
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion Control: Tussilago farfara, commonly known as coltsfoot, has a strong root system that can help stabilize soil and control erosion.
- Wildlife Habitat: Coltsfoot provides early-season nectar for bees and other pollinators emerging in spring when few other floral resources are available.
- Ornamental Use: With its bright yellow flowers that resemble dandelions, coltsfoot can add aesthetic value to gardens and wildflower meadows.
- Soil Indicator: Coltsfoot often grows in areas with rich or heavy clay soils, indicating soil conditions.
- Culinary Use: Although not frequently used, the young leaves and flowers of coltsfoot can sometimes be added to salads or used as garnish in moderation.
- Crafting and Dye: The flowers have been historically used for dyeing fabric a light green or yellow color.
Medical Properties- Expectorant: Tussilago farfara, commonly known as coltsfoot, has been used to help loosen phlegm and ease cough.
- Antitussive: May help to reduce the frequency and intensity of coughing.
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains compounds that have been reported to reduce inflammation.
- Demulcent: Soothes irritated mucous membranes, particularly in the throat and lungs.
- Antispasmodic: May help in reducing spasms, such as those associated with coughing.
- Emollient: Historically used to treat skin conditions due to its soothing properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect Repelling: Tussilago farfara, commonly known as coltsfoot, has been used historically to repel insects, possibly due to its strong scent when leaves are crushed.
- Plant Dye: The flowers of coltsfoot can be used to produce a yellow-green dye for wool and other fabrics.
- Natural Fertilizer: Coltsfoot leaves, which are rich in minerals, can be decomposed into compost to act as a natural fertilizer in gardens.
- Embankment Stabilization: Because coltsfoot has a robust root system, it can be planted on embankments to prevent soil erosion.
- Indicator of Soil Conditions: The growth of coltsfoot can indicate that the soil is damp and may have a high lime content, useful for farmers and gardeners in assessing land quality.
- Feed for Livestock: While not a common feed, coltsfoot has been used in the past as fodder for livestock, especially in times of scarcity.
- Erosion Control Mats: The fibrous nature of coltsfoot stems has been used historically to create mats that help prevent soil erosion.
- Paper Making: The fibres from coltsfoot have been experimented with for paper making due to their strength and abundance.
- Culinary Decoration: The bright yellow flowers of coltsfoot can be used as decorative garnishes for dishes, although they are not commonly consumed.
- Floral Arrangements: Coltsfoot flowers make a seasonal appearance in early spring floral arrangements due to their early blooming nature.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Tussilago farfara, commonly known as coltsfoot, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant coltsfoot is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Tussilago farfara, commonly known as Coltsfoot, has historically been used for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating coughs and respiratory ailments, symbolizing the plant's association with healing and relief.
- Maternal Care: The plant's flowers bloom before the leaves appear, reminiscent of a mother's care that comes before her own needs, making Coltsfoot a symbol of maternal love and devotion.
- Endurance: Coltsfoot's ability to thrive in difficult conditions and its early spring bloom even in harsh environments symbolize endurance and the ability to withstand challenges.
- Persistence: The tenacity of Coltsfoot, as it spreads vigorously and covers the ground, can symbolize persistence and determination.
WaterColtsfoot should be watered moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This typically means giving the plant about 1 inch of water each week, but this can vary depending on climate conditions and soil type. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it's important to check the soil moisture before adding more water. During the growing season, it may be necessary to water the plant more frequently, especially in very dry or hot weather. In the winter, reduce watering as the plant goes dormant.
LightColtsfoot thrives best in full sunlight to partial shade. It prefers a nice balance of sun and shade, meaning a spot that receives several hours of direct sunlight followed by partial shade or dappled light would be ideal. Avoid deep shade locations as this can lead to poor blooming and weak growth.
TemperatureColtsfoot is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally, coltsfoot flourishes in a temperate climate, with the temperature ranging between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat above 80 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant, so provide some shade during the hottest part of the day if necessary.
PruningPruning coltsfoot is generally more about removing old flowers and dead leaves to maintain a tidy appearance and promote good air circulation. Cutting back the spent flowers can prevent self-seeding if you wish to control the plant's spread. Pruning is best done after flowering, which typically occurs in spring. Just a light clean-up once a year is usually enough, as the plant doesn't tend to get overly unruly.
CleaningNot needed
SoilColtsfoot (Tussilago farfara) thrives in a soil mix that is rich in organic matter and has good drainage. An ideal mix would consist of loamy garden soil, well-rotted compost, and sand to improve drainage. The soil pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5, which is slightly acidic to neutral. Ensure that the soil retains some moisture, as coltsfoot prefers slightly damp conditions.
RepottingColtsfoot typically doesn't require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. Generally, you should consider repotting coltsfoot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth. If the plant appears to be overcrowded or if growth has slowed significantly, it may be time to repot.
Humidity & MistingColtsfoot prefers a moderate humidity level, similar to that found in its natural habitat, which is typically near riverbanks and moist woodland areas. Ensuring good air circulation around the plant will help maintain the ideal humidity without the need for additional humidity control methods.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light, maintain moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, keep soil consistently moist.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleColtsfoot (Tussilago farfara) begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in spring or early summer. Once germinated, the plant develops a basal rosette of leaves after its flowers have bloomed and set seed. Flowering occurs in early spring, often before the leaves develop, with bright yellow flowers appearing on scaly stems. Following pollination, seeds are produced and dispersed by wind due to their light, fluffy, dandelion-like appearance. After seed dispersal, the plant goes dormant in summer, surviving as underground rhizomes. With the return of favorable conditions in the next spring, the cycle repeats as new shoots emerge from the rhizomes and develop into flowering stems.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter to early spring
The most popular method of propagation for the plant commonly known as Coltsfoot, Tussilago farfara, is through division. This typically takes place in the early spring or fall. To propagate Coltsfoot by division, the gardener gently separates a piece of the plant that includes roots, ensuring there is at least one growing bud present on the division. The division is then planted in a hole that is as deep as the root ball and twice as wide, which would be approximately a few inches deep and wide, or 7.5-15 centimeters deep and wide in metric. Adequate space must be provided between the divisions to allow for growth. Watering the new division thoroughly helps to establish the plant in its new location. This method leverages the plant's natural tendency to spread and can quickly produce new Coltsfoot plants.
