Tussilago farfara, commonly known as coltsfoot, is a perennial herbaceous plant that is one of the first to bloom in spring, often seen flowering before its leaves fully develop. Recognizable by its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers, coltsfoot has been used historically in herbal medicine, particularly for treating respiratory ailments. The plant's leaves, which appear after the flowers, are broad and heart-shaped with a slightly woolly texture. Coltsfoot is often found in wet, marshy areas, along streambanks, and in other moist, disturbed soils.

Why we like it

• Early spring blooms provide a welcome splash of color after the winter months.
• Historically valued for medicinal properties, particularly in cough remedies.
• Hardy and easy to grow, thriving in a variety of challenging conditions.

What to know

• Thrives in moist, loamy soils but can tolerate a range of soil conditions including wet and clay soils.
• Prefers full sun but can grow in partial shade.
• Can become invasive due to its prolific seed production and spreading rhizomes.
• Care should be taken in planting location to prevent unwanted spread.
• Minimal care required beyond controlling its spread in garden settings.

Flower Colour

• Yellow

Flowering months

• March
• April

Height and Spread

• Height: 10 to 30 cm
• Spread: can be expansive due to spreading rhizomes.