Winter Heliotrope

Winter Heliotrope
Peter Orchard
Tue, 01/31/2023 - 19:36













Species Photograph














Introduction



I can never decide whether the appearance of winter heliotrope flowers  is a sign that spring is on its way or that winter is definitely with us! Sadly, it is probably the latter and there is still a month or two to wait for true signs of spring. Winter heliotrope (Pesasites fragrans) was brought over from the Mediterranean in Victorian times as a garden plant partly for winter colour but also because of its vanilla scented fragrance.  It has subsequently 'escaped' and has become a naturalised wild flower. It is interesting that despite the colder climate here it still flowers at the same time as it would have done in its home Mediterranean region.



Description



Native to Western Europe, winter heliotrope has heart-shaped leaves that can span up to 12 inches in diameter and has clusters of petite pink to white flowers that create a picturesque scene against the backdrop of winter's muted palette.

The flowers, which bloom from late autumn to early spring, form compact clusters on tall stems. 



Similes



Winter heliotrope is a smaller version of its cousin, butterbur (Petasites hybridus), and some confuse the two. Butterbur does not have the scent of winter heliotrope and the flowers are reddish and form more densely on the spike. The leaves of butterbur are larger and more rounded than the toothed leaves of heliotrope and the leaves come after the flowers.  Butterbur is less common than winter heliotrope.



Habitat



The plant is known for its ability to thrive in a variety of environments, from woodlands to open fields, making it a resilient companion throughout the colder months.



Locally



You do not have to go far in Sidmouth before you encounter a patch of winter heliotrope. It is common in damp, shaded habitats in parks and gardens, along hedgerows, road verges, river banks and waste places. It often forms quite large patches. The leaves are visible all year round and the flowers are most prolific between January to April.



Significance



One of the most distinctive features of the winter heliotrope is its enchanting fragrance. The delicate aroma is often described as a sweet and honey-like scent, making it a pleasant surprise for those who encounter it on a winter stroll. This fragrance, combined with the visual appeal of the plant, makes it a sought-after addition to winter gardens. Beyond its aesthetic qualities, winter heliotrope has been used for various purposes throughout history. Traditional herbal medicine has employed its rhizomes for their purported medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects. However, it's essential to note that the plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic in high concentrations.



Benefits



Winter heliotrope was introduced into gardens, partly for its winter colour, but also because it has a strong vanilla scent, the fragrance giving its botanical name, 'fragrans'. Its growth habit and ability to spread rapidly make it an excellent choice for ground cover in gardens, particularly in areas where other plants may struggle during the winter months. However, It is important to note that it can be an invasive species in some areas. Its rapid growth and ability to spread through rhizomes may result in the displacement of native vegetation. Therefore, gardeners and land managers should exercise caution when introducing the winter heliotrope and should consider its potential impact on local ecosystems.



Summary



In the chill of winter, the winter heliotrope stands as a testament to nature's resilience and the enduring beauty that can be found even in the coldest months. Its fragrant blooms and adaptability make it a unique and captivating addition to gardens, providing a welcome touch of warmth when the world outside seems to be in hibernation. As we marvel at this enchanting plant, let us also be mindful of its potential impact on local ecosystems and strive to appreciate and preserve the delicate balance of nature.











Species Specific
Petasites fragrans









Species Reference
Blamey 414.06










Species Catalogue




* Daisies - Compositae













Species Habitat




* J1: Cultivated and disturbed land

* G3: Water margin and inundation vegetation


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