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Herbaceous Perennial

Symphytum officinale
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

common comfrey

Vigorous perennial about 1.5m tall, forming a clump of erect stems bearing coarse, hairy dark green leaves to 25cm in length, with winged stalks, and clusters of tubular, purple, pink or creamy-yellow flowers 2cm in length in late spring and summer

Other common names
alum
backwort
see moreblack root
blackwort
Bohemian comfrey
bone-set
comfrey consound
gum plant
knit-back
bruisewort
healing herb

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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Cream Yellow Pink Purple Green
Summer Cream Yellow Pink Purple Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Boraginaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten repeatedly. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (rabbits, rodents): Harmful if eaten repeatedly - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Symphytum are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials, sometimes invasive, with large leaves and nodding clusters of tubular flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe & temperate Asia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, moist soil in sun or partial shade. Be aware the plant growth can be vigorous once established and has the potential to become a nuisance, so may require appropriate management. Can be grown for use as a plant fertiliser

Propagation

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

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Cottage and informal garden
Pruning

Can be cut back after flowering to encourage neat, young foliage

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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