Petasites japonicus
is a dioecious perennial that propagates by extending rhizomes.
Leaves are kidney-shaped orbicular, 15-30cm in width, with bases
deep-heart-shaped, and petioles grow to as long as 60cm in length
and about 1cm in diameter. Before sprouting, flower stalks rise
above the ground and set flower heads in a corymbs way. The flower
stalks come out with many bracts with prominent parallel venations.
Male plants grow to 10-25cm tall and set many yellow-white flower
heads, while females initially have dense flower heads but grow to
approximately 45cm afterward. Bloom time: March-May. |