Plant types

Plant styles

Planting conditions

Seasonal interest

Nurseries & Gardens

Photo by Fritz Geller-Grimm

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Petasites fragrans

Also Known As

Winter Heliotrope

Plant type

perennial, groundcover, aquatic

size

H: 6"-12"
W: 24"

planting zones

8a-10b

Petasites fragrans plant details

Petasites fragrans is a broadleaf deciduous perennial groundcover aquatic with green foliage. In summer white flowers emerge. Attracts bees and birds making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - shade and high water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in rich soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Petasites fragrans

Plant type: perennial groundcover aquatic
Plant family: asteraceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 24 IN wide, 6 IN - 12 IN - tall
Flowers: white blooms in summer
Uses: fragrant, vanilla-scented, winter interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Petasites fragrans

USDA Zones: 8a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - shade
Watering frequency: high

Soil needs: rich

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Powerfully vanilla-scented, the dense pink and white flower heads of this vigorous perennial (it can spread) appear on their 8-12" stalks when fragrance in the garden may be most appreciated! S-PSh/M-W

By: Forestfarm

This small-leaved, Mediterranean native coltsfoot is perfect for the summer drought border–it simply goes dormant if unwatered. The small, round-leaved foliage is fragrant as are the white, vanilla-scented flowers in winter, a source of winter food for bees. Best in shade. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8.