Symphytum ibericum
Iberian comfrey
Clump-forming perennial to 40cm in height, rapidly spreading by rhizomes, with broadly oval, mid-green leaves, and dense clusters of pale yellow flowers opening from red tinted 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–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Red Yellow | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical 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
- Cauc. & NE Turkey
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
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
- Ground cover
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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