Classification
 Nomenclature
Scientific Name:
Petasites fragrans (Vill.) C.Presl
Vernacular Name(s):
Butterbur; Winter heliotrope
 Description

Perennial herb with stout rootstock and rhizomes. Basal lvs glabrous on upper surface, hairy on veins and otherwise sparsely hairy on lower; petiole hairy, > lamina, (4)–7–25–(35) cm long; lamina reniform, cordate, obtuse at apex, regularly dentate, (2)–6–18 cm diam. Infl. a corymb, appearing with or after lvs, with up to 10–(20) capitula, erect, 15–35 cm tall; cauline lvs 1–3, with broad sheathing amplexicaul base and often a reduced lamina. Supplementary bracts 2–4, lanceolate, 3–7 mm long. Involucral bracts 12–14, oblong-elliptic, 8–12 mm long. Ray florets 8–13; ligules pale pink to purple, 4–5 mm long. Disc pink to purple. Achenes not formed.

[From: Webb et al. (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Volume 4.]

 Biostatus
Exotic
 Phenology

Flowering: Jun.–Sep.