Species comfrey

comfrey

Symphytum officinale

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is an upland perenniel native to Europe, Asia, and northwest Africa. It has a deep, extensive root system and a spreading, herbaceous habit. Its furry, bluish-green leaves are paired opposite each other and reach up to 60 cm in length. They are borne on stems up to 4 ft tall. Large, bell-shaped, purple, pink, or white flowers appear from April to October. Comfrey has long been used medicinally for its high allantoin content, which promotes cell regeneration. Its extract is known for its ability to soothe skin inflammation and for its calming effects. It is also a great source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Comfrey attracts pollinators, making it an excellent choice for a wildlife garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

White to pink to purple Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Comfrey should be watered about once a week, and when you water it, you should provide the plant with a deep watering that evenly moistens the soil and reaches all the way down to its roots. Make sure not to water the plant too much since comfrey does not need regular waterings to thrive. The soil should dry out slightly between waterings, and it should never be soggy or overly wet. When it is hot and dry outside, water more often to keep the soil hydrated. In cooler climates, waterings can be reduced slightly.

sunlight

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) requires full sunlight for 8 hours per day. It should be planted in an area that receives direct sunlight, either in the early morning or late afternoon. Sunlight should be evenly distributed across the comfrey plant's leaves throughout the day. Too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and produce fewer flowers. If temperatures in your area are consistently above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, it may be best to provide some afternoon shade to protect this low-growing perennial.

pruning

comfrey (Symphytum officinale) should be pruned in late spring or early summer. Pruning should be fairly light, so as not to remove too much of the overall leaf and stem growth. Removing up to a third of the older, more woody stems and a few spent flower heads should be enough. Also, remove any straggly, dead or diseased stems at the same time. If a more substantial pruning is needed, wait until late summer or early autumn before tackling it. Avoid pruning too heavily in the winter as this can weaken or otherwise damage the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Comfrey typically starts flowering in May.

Hardiness Map