Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Petasites japonicus
Japanese Butterbur
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Height
- 24 to 36 in
- Width
- 36 to 60 in
- Flower color
- Pale yellowish white flower clusters on thick upright stems
- Foliage color
- Very large rounded green leaves forming bold dense colonies
- Bloom time
- Late winter to early spring
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Consistently moist to wet rich soil
- Maintenance
- Moderate; spreads vigorously by rhizomes and may require containment
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees and other early season pollinators
About this plant
Petasites japonicus sends up rounded clusters of pale creamy flowers in very early spring, often before the foliage fully expands, bringing a quiet seasonal awakening to shaded garden spaces. Soon after bloom, large, softly textured leaves unfurl into broad green discs carried on sturdy stems, creating a lush, cooling presence that endures through the growing season and lends bold structure to woodland plantings.
Native to Japan, Korea, and parts of eastern China, it reflects the moist forest margins and streamside environments of East Asia where it has long been gathered and cultivated. Vigorous vegetative growth allows colonies to broaden gradually, contributing enduring texture and leafy fullness across summer.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens
Companion plants
Lungworts · Wild ginger · Hellebores · Japanese forest grass · Astilbes · Heucheras
Design tip
Flowers in the quietest months make this worth a sheltered spot within sight of a window or door. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden.
