Symphytum officinale blue-flowered
blue-flowered 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 blue flowers 2cm in length in late spring and summer
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Blue | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- 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
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 or from root cuttings in early winter
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
Get involved
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