Description
Comfrey is a perennial plant in the Boraginaceae family. The scientific name Symphytum comes from the Greek words symphyo- or grow together and phyton- for plant; together translating to a plant that heals injuries, hence a nickname for Comfrey is Knitbone. It has a long history of use as a medicinal herb for topical and internal injuries, though it is no longer considered safe for consumption. Comfrey is incredibly useful in the external treatment of cuts, bruises, sprains, sores, eczema, varicose veins, and broken bones. Harvest its leaves before the plant flowers, but harvest the roots in autumn. Prepare as an poultice, ointment, salve or lotion.
Prune your Comfrey plants several times a year and use the clippings as compost for food crops. Make a nutrient-rich fertilizer by soaking Comfrey leaves in water for a week or longer — its potassium is great for growing tomatoes. Download our Comfrey PDF Reference sheet.
Growing Notes:
Zones: 3-9
Exposure: Full Sun
Mature Height: 36-48″ | Spread 18”
Bloom: Lavender | Late Spring/Summer
ORDER ONLINE FOR LOCAL PICKUP ONLY at our Talking Rock Greenhouse. Text 770-519-5173 or click here to set a pickup appointment.
All plants grown by Herb & Vine are sown from organic seed in organic soil. We use no chemicals and water naturally with rain water.
IMPORTANT: Information on this website is based on research of the historical uses of this herb and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a medical professional before using any herb for therapeutic purposes. Do not take if pregnant or nursing. Caution: roots contains a toxic alkaloid which can have a cumulative effect upon the liver.
