Also known as Ārstniecības Tauksakne · Blackwort · Boneset
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Common comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a vigorous perennial herb known for its medicinal uses, large bristly leaves, and clusters of bell-shaped flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
50% intensity
Thrives in sunny locations but tolerates some shade.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Prefers moist soil, but avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Hardy Perennial
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, including frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low to Moderate
25% intensity
Benefits from compost or well-rotted manure annually.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage with prolonged or excessive consumption.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
In hot weather, more frequent watering may be necessary to maintain soil moisture.
Cut back common comfrey after flowering or in late autumn. Remove dead or damaged foliage anytime. Pruning encourages bushy growth and prevents excessive self-seeding.
Cut stems close to the ground, leaving a few centimeters above soil level.
Common comfrey is easily propagated by division of established roots in early spring or autumn. It can also be grown from seed sown outdoors in autumn or early spring.
Root cuttings also readily establish into new plants.
Repotting is generally not necessary for common comfrey grown in the ground as it is a large perennial. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years in early spring to refresh the soil and provide more space for its extensive root system.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)
Where Common Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Symphytum |
| Species | Symphytum officinale |
Similar in genus Symphytum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
