Herb
Tussilago means cough
Farfara means dried leaves to be used as a tonic
Native to northern Europe, Asia, and north Africa
Naturalized from Nova Scotia to Quebec to New Jersey and West Virginia
A perennial with a root network that spreads quickly, which makes them ideal as a ground cover
They bloom before dandelion in early spring
This makes them ideal as a first source of pollen for the native bees and other pollinators
The large leaves protect the soil surface and help keep the soil moist
Coltsfoot is perfect for wildlife gardens
References:
“Farfara.” Merriam-Webster.com Medical Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/farfara. Accessed 12 Feb. 2022.
Rodale’s Illustrated Herbs, Rodale Press, 1987