Question

Just look at this. It doesn't look like it's making contact...

Answer 1

Well, Petal Dance isn't Physical.

Petal Dance is Special.

Basically, you are shooting petals at a target. Those petals have to hit the target to hurt it, right?

Comments

Moves that make contact involve making contact with the target like punching or kicking.

---

petal dance still does contact...

Answer 2

Anime doesn't really relate to games. And I think that image was part of a Bulbasaur who participated in a Pokemon Contest. Plus, it is Special, not Physical. Meaning the Leaves in the image will hit the foe, but without the use of the body.

http://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/Petal_Dance_(move)