Symphytum ibericum
Iberian comfrey
S. ibericum is a perennial to 40cm in height, with ovate leaves and pale yellow flowers opening from red buds in late spring
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Yellow | Green | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Yellow | Green | ||
Autumn | ||||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Potentially harmful
- Ingestion may cause severe discomfort. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling
- Genus
Symphytum are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials, sometimes invasive, with large leaves and nodding clusters of tubular flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Cauc. & NE Turkey
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, moist soil in full sun or partial shade. Can be invasive so site with care
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
- Banks and slopes
- Flower borders and beds
- Ground cover
Pruning
Cut back after flowering to encourage neat, young foliage
Pests
Generally pest free
Diseases
Generally disease free
Get involved
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