Symphytum officinale (Common Comfrey)

Symphytum officinale (Common Comfrey) is a coarse, spreading perennial forming a clump of long, elliptic, dark green leaves, 10 in. long (25 cm). In late spring to early summer, nodding, tubular bell-shaped, purple, pink or cream flowers appear in drooping clusters. Comfrey has a long history as a medicinal herb and has been grown in herbal gardens since the 12th century. It was used as a poultice to help the healing of broken bones and became known as boneset. Today, it is also used in perennial borders, as a ground cover, or on banks of streams and ponds. A most suitable plant for moist areas in sun or dappled shade.

• Grows up to 1-3 ft. tall (30-90 cm) and 10-30 in. wide (25-75 cm). Because it spreads rapidly, give it some space. Once established, Comfrey can be very difficult to dig out.
• Thrives in full sun or part shade in moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soils. Appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Drought tolerant once established.
• Excellent choice for herb gardens, woodland gardens, cottage gardens or wildflower gardens where it can form attractive colonies over time. It makes a good groundcover but can become invasive, so site with care. Planting in containers may help limit its spread.
• Easy to grow, deer-resistant, disease and pest free, clay soil tolerant.
• Cutting back stems promptly after flowering may encourage a possible rebloom and neat, young foliage.
• Propagate by division of fleshy roots in spring. Propagate by root cuttings in early winter. Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn or spring.
• Ingestion may cause severe discomfort
• Native to Europe, Asia.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
• Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.