Coltsfoot Plant Care
Tussilago farfara L.
Tussilago farfara, commonly known as coltsfoot, is a plant in the tribe Senecioneae in the family Asteraceae, native to Europe and parts of western and central Asia. The name "tussilago" is derived from the Latin tussis, meaning cough, and ago, meaning to cast or to act on.
Every 3–5 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–75°F
40–60%
What Is the Coltsfoot?
Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Tussilago genus. Coltsfoot is native to Europe and parts of western and central Asia. Coltsfoot is also known as Butterbur.
Coltsfoot displays a spreading groundcover growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 inches. Coltsfoot produces yellow daisy-like flowers in early spring.
Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Coltsfoot?
Tussilago farfara requires watering every 3–5 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 3–5 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Coltsfoot Need?
Coltsfoot thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 1000–3000 lux. Avoid placing Coltsfoot in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
1000–3000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Coltsfoot Prefer?
Tussilago farfara grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. Coltsfoot prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
50–75°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Coltsfoot?
Moist, well-draining soil with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Coltsfoot to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Coltsfoot?
Not typically grown in pots. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Coltsfoot?
Coltsfoot can be propagated through seeds.
Fertilizing
Every 0 months
During the growing season
Is the Coltsfoot Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Coltsfoot?
Coltsfoot is susceptible to aphids, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Coltsfoot Need?
Coltsfoot grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. Native to Europe and parts of western and central Asia, Coltsfoot is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Coltsfoot as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Coltsfoot is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Tussilago genus — compare its care with other Tussilago species on PlantoScan.
Coltsfoot tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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