Arctic Butterbur
Petasites frigidus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Petasites frigidus (Arctic Butterbur) is a native perennial forb found across northern US states from California to Maine. This moisture-loving plant blooms white flowers in early spring (March-May) and thrives in partial shade to shaded conditions.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Arctic Butterbur as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
CA, CO, CT, ID and 15 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Arctic butterbur is a native perennial with large, rounded leaves and clusters of small white to pinkish flowers that appear in early spring before the foliage emerges. This moisture-loving plant thrives in shaded areas and can spread to form colonies in ideal conditions. It goes dormant in winter, disappearing completely until spring growth returns.
Growing Arctic Butterbur
Grow Arctic Butterbur in part shade and high water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Arctic Butterbur takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Completely dormant and invisible in winter
- Can spread aggressively in moist conditions
- Large leaves may appear untidy to some
Wildlife value
The early spring blooms provide nectar for bees and flies when few other flowers are available. The large leaves offer shelter for small wildlife during the growing season.
Common questions
- When does Arctic Butterbur bloom?
- Arctic Butterbur blooms from March through May, producing white flower clusters in early spring before the leaves fully emerge.
- What pollinators visit Arctic Butterbur?
- Arctic Butterbur attracts bees and flies, which visit the early spring flowers for nectar and pollen when few other plants are blooming.
- Where is Arctic Butterbur native?
- Arctic Butterbur is native to northern regions across the United States, including states from the Pacific Northwest to New England and the northern Great Plains.
- What growing conditions does Arctic Butterbur prefer?
- Arctic Butterbur thrives in moist to wet soils and partial shade to full shade conditions, making it well-suited for woodland gardens and streamside plantings.
- Is Arctic Butterbur toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Arctic Butterbur as toxic to livestock.
- Is Arctic Butterbur HOA-friendly?
- Arctic Butterbur takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Arctic Butterbur? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz