Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)

Varieties in Western Canada are Arrow leaved coltsfoot( Petasites sagittatus) Palmate,  coltsfoot(Petasites frigidus var palmatus) and Sweet coltsfoot(Petasites frigidus var frigidus). Many people automatically assumeTussilago farfara to be dandelions. Like the dandelion, coltsfoot is often found in colonies of dozens of plants. Unlike the dandelion, Coltsfoot is a perennial herbaceous plant that spreads by rhizones as well as seeds. it is a member of the family Asteraceaethat has traditionally had medicinal uses (the name "tussilago" means cough suppressant). However, the discovery of  toxin pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the plant has resulted in liver health concerns.
A well kept secret; because it will cause miscarriage in pregnant woman, if eaten in large enough quantity, it was often used for birth control. 

The flowers, which only superficially resemble dandelions, appear in early spring, before dandelions appear.The leaves, which resemble a colts foot in cross section, do not appear until after the seeds are set. Thus the flowers appear on stems with no apparent leaves, and the later appearing leaves then wither and die during the season without seeming to set flowers. Like the dandelion Coltsfoot is native to several locations in Europe and Asia. It is now, like the dandelion, a common plant in North America; where like the dandelion it has been introduced by settlers, as a medicinal and food item,The plant is often found in waste and disturbed places, and along roadsides , and paths. Like the dandelion, it is now often considered to be an invasive species.

1. Flower buds, young flowers,  leaves, stems, with flowers, can be braised, boiled roasted or stir-fried used in soups, or as pot herbs.
2. Fresh or dried flowers make an aromatic tea or a delicious wine.
3. Leaves can be cooked and used like spinach.
4. Leaves can be rolled into tight balls, dried, burned to ash, and then used as a salt substitute.

Coltsfoot has become controversial.  Used for centuries it has recently come under scrutiny for a chemical that might cause liver damage, at least in infants. 

©Al (Alex-Alexander) D. Girvan. All rights reserved.