I can never decide whether the appearance of winter heliotrope is a sign that spring is on its way or that winter is definitely with us! Sadly, it is probably the latter as it can be found in flower in December in some places. It will flower through until February and then it will be replaced by its cousin, butterbur (Petasites hybridus), which is far less frequent.
Winter heliotrope was brought here from the Mediterranean in Victorian times. It 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'. 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.
It has subsequently 'escaped' and has become a naturalised wild flower. It is common in damp, shaded habitats along hedgerows, road verges, river banks and waste places especially near housing areas. In the Sidmouth area it is common along the banks of the river through the Byes and it occurs elsewhere near houses with gardens.
The plant produces large, round leaves which are readily identified and it often forms quite large patches. This spreading habit makes it an invasive species in many areas and has an adverse effect on native flora.
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