Butterbur  (Petasites hybridus)

This species has a wide distribution in Britain, although female plants are found only in north and central England (3). Colonies containing just male plants are thought to be clones from deliberately planted specimens, perhaps introduced to provide a supply of nectar for bee-keeping (3). Butterbur is found in mainland Europe as far north as Scandinavia. It also occurs in north and west Asia and has been introduced to North America (2).

Typically found growing in shady places beside waterways, in wet meadows and copses, marshes, flood plains and damp roadsides (2) (3).