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Herbaceous Perennial

Symphytum 'Hidcote Blue'

Hidcote comfrey

Upright, clump-forming, hairy perennial to 45cm tall, with oval, wrinkled and veined mid-green leaves. Clusters of red buds appear during spring, opening to tubular pale blue flowers

Synonyms
Symphytum grandiflorum 'Hidcote Blue'
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Blue Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

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

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Boraginaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
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

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, moist soil in sun or partial shade. Be aware this plant has the potential to become a nuisance, so may require appropriate management

Propagation

Propagate by division of fleshy roots in spring or from root cuttings in early winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Ground cover
  • Banks and slopes
Pruning

Cut back after flowering to encourage neat, young foliage

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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