Coltsfoot

Tussilago farfara

Coltsfoot is the first flower to bloom here in my neighborhood. It grows by the side of the roads. It is valued about as much as the dandelion, which means not much. It is very common, just like the dandelion. But I love this flower because even when there is snow on the ground, it will bloom and I know it will be spring.

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2008 First Wildflower: Coltsfoot

Tussilago farfara
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This plant is a European introduction. The genus name, from the Latin tussis ("a cough"), alludes to the plant's reputation as a cure for coughs. An extract of fresh leaves can be used for making cough drops or hard candy, and its dried leaves can be steeped for a tea. Contains traces of liver-affecting pyrrolizidine alkaloids, potentially toxic in large doses.

from National Audubon Society Field Guide to Wildflowers (Eastern Region) and
Peterson Field Guides Eastern/Central Medicinal Plants

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