Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a bold perennial known for its large, textured leaves and clusters of purple bell-shaped blooms that support bees and other pollinators. This upright, clumping plant thrives in moist soils and performs beautifully along water edges, in wild gardens, or as a tall foliage accent in pollinator landscapes. With long-lasting greenery and vigorous growth, Comfrey adds both structure and ecological value to natural plantings.
Features
• Clusters of purple bell-shaped flowers loved by pollinators
• Strong, textured foliage perfect for wild or natural gardens
• Thrives in moist soils near ponds or garden borders
• Hardy perennial that returns yearly and forms dense clumps
• Excellent plant for pollinator and wildlife landscapes
• Non-GMO Symphytum officinale seed variety
Specifications
• Common Name: Comfrey
• Scientific Name: Symphytum officinale
• Plant Type: Perennial herbaceous plant
• USDA Zones: 4–9
• Flower Color: Purple to violet bells
• Bloom Season: Late spring to midsummer
• Height: 24–48 inches
• Spread: 18–36 inches
• Growth Habit: Upright clumping with large foliage
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Preference: Moist, rich, well-drained soil
• Water Needs: Moderate to high
• Pollinator Value: Attracts bees and beneficial insects
• Maintenance Level: Low
• Plant Spacing: 18–24 inches
• Seed Viability: 2–3 years stored cool & dry
Planting Guide
• Direct sow in fall or early spring for best germination.
• For spring sowing, cold stratify seeds for 4–6 weeks in moist medium.
• Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in moist, well-drained soil.
• Keep soil consistently moist; germination typically 21–35 days.
• Transplant or thin seedlings to 18–24 inches apart.
• Place in sunny to lightly shaded areas with moist soil.
• Water regularly during establishment; tolerates less water once mature.
• Forms long-lived clumps; remove spent stalks to tidy growth or allow reseeding for natural spread.
