Species Northern Wild Comfrey
pink-purple flowers, dark-purple buds, purple-green sepals, green leaves and stems

Northern Wild Comfrey

Andersonglossum boreale

Northern Wild Comfrey (Andersonglossum boreale) is a low-growing plant native to northern North America. Its dark green, waxy leaves have a hairy underside that supports its traditional use as medicinal herb. It produces tubular, white blooms in late spring and early summer, which attract a variety of pollinators. Its taproot system makes the plant drought tolerant and gives it the ability to live for several years. Northern Wild Comfrey is an ideal choice for woodland, dry meadow, and natural landscape plantings. It tolerates shade and partial sun. These delicate looking plants will bring beauty and texture to a garden.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Northern wild comfrey should be watered once or twice per week, depending on the temperature and light levels. In the summer months when temperatures are higher and the sun is shining, water the plant more frequently. Besides during the summer months, water the plant when the soil feels dry. To check the soil, insert your finger into the soil about 1 inch deep. If the soil feels moist, then hold off on watering for a few days. During the winter months, water less frequently. The plant does not require as much water during the colder months, so water the plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry.

sunlight

In regards to sunlight, Northern Wild Comfrey (Andersonglossum boreale) prefers full sun for optimal growth and flowering. Depending on the season and climate, they should receive 5 to 8 hours of direct sun each day with temperatures ranging from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. During the summer months, the temperature can rise above this range, so it is best to provide partial shade in the afternoon. In the winter, the plant should receive direct sun but it will not need as much as it did in the summer.

pruning

Northern Wild Comfrey should be pruned in the late summer or fall once the plant starts to die back. Pruning should be done to remove any dead or dying stems and enhance the shape of the plant. A very light pruning can also be done on new growth in the early summer if needed. Pruning should only be done lightly, as too much pruning can damage the overall look of the plant. When pruning, keep the overall shape of the plant in mind and only remove around 20-25% of the stems or foliage.