Species comfrey

comfrey

Symphytum uplandicum 'Variegatum'

Comfrey (Symphytum uplandicum 'Variegatum') is a multi-purpose herbaceous perennial. It grows up to about 2-3 feet tall, with a wide spreading habit. The leaves of the plant are broad and round to heart-shaped, with creamy-white center variegation in the spring through fall. The flowers of the plant are bell-shaped and a pale purpleish-blue color. Comfrey is a hardy plant requiring very minimal care, and is generally pest free. It is known for its medicinal properties and can be used externally to heal broken bones, sprains and bruises. Called the "wonder herb" by some, comfrey's uses range from adding essential nutrients to soil to herbal remedies.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Rose aging to purple Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water your comfrey (Symphyyum uplandicum 'Variegatum') once a week or when the top 2-3 inches of soil feels dry. During the hotter summer months, make sure you provide more frequent waterings. Always check the moisture of the soil before watering to prevent the possibility of over-watering or root-rot. This plant species typically prefers moderately moist soils, so make sure not to let it sit in soggy soils for extended periods of time.

sunlight

Comfrey (Symphytum uplandicum 'Variegatum') is a shade-tolerant plant, but it needs at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight every day for optimal growth. In regions with hot summers, it is best to provide full sun during the morning and partial shade in the afternoon. If grown in a flat or basket, it should be turned so that all of the leaves receive equal exposure to sunlight. During the winter, the amount of sunlight needed will be reduced significantly and the plant may even tolerate some light shade.

pruning

Comfrey (Symphytum uplandicum 'Variegatum') should be lightly pruned in early summer, after it blooms. Cut only 1 third to 1 half of the top growth back to encourage bushier growth. Remove the older, woodier stems completely for the best appearance. Prune only as much as necessary, since comfrey regenerates very quickly.

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