Also known as Comfrey · Eastern Comfrey · Soft Comfrey
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Symphytum orientale, a perennial herb, features hairy leaves and clusters of bell-shaped flowers. It's suitable for borders and naturalistic plantings.
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, especially in hot climates.
Regular during growing season, reduced in winter
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, but avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, withstanding frost once established.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light feeding
25% intensity
Feed annually in spring with balanced fertilizer; compost is beneficial.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage and other health issues if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in autumn and winter as the plant enters dormancy.
Check the soil moisture with your finger; if the top few centimeters feel dry, it's time to water.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding if desired.
Cut back the entire plant to the ground after flowering has finished or in late autumn to tidy up the appearance and prepare it for winter. This also prevents it from looking straggly.
Symphytum orientale is easily propagated from seed sown in autumn or early spring, or by division of established clumps in early spring. Root cuttings can also be taken in late spring or early summer.
Ensure good moisture for successful establishment.
Young plants may benefit from repotting annually into slightly larger containers. Established plants in the garden generally do not require repotting.
If growing in a container, repot every 2-3 years in spring, using fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Symphytum Orientale (Symphytum orientale)
Where Symphytum Orientale (Symphytum orientale) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Symphytum |
| Species | Symphytum orientale |
Similar in genus Symphytum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
