Symphytum caucasicum
Caucasian comfrey
Clump-forming, perennial eventually forming an extensive colony of erect stems to 60cm in height, bearing large lance-shaped mid-green leaves, and tubular bright blue flowers on upright then spreading stems, during summer
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten repeatedly. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Symphytum are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials, sometimes invasive, with large leaves and nodding clusters of tubular flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Caucasus, Iran
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 will require appropriate management
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
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Ground cover
Pruning
Cut back after flowering to encourage neat, young foliage
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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