Water
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out slightly between waterings in cooler months.
Also known as Comfrey · Eastern Comfrey · Soft Comfrey
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Symphytum orientale is a species of perennial herb, known for its attractive foliage and clusters of white flowers, typically found in moist woodland areas.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers locations with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but tolerates some shade.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures; hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Moderate
50% intensity
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring. Avoid over-fertilization.
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 be harmful to the liver.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out slightly between waterings in cooler months.
Cut back dead or damaged foliage in late autumn or early spring to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent disease. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage further blooming.
For vigorous regrowth, cut stems back close to the ground after flowering.
Easily propagated from basal cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Division of established clumps is also an effective method, best carried out in early spring as new growth appears.
Seeds can be sown in autumn or spring.
Mature plants generally do not require frequent repotting. If container-grown, repot every 2-3 years in early spring into a slightly larger pot using fresh, well-draining potting mix.
This helps to refresh the soil and provides space for root growth.
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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
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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 orientale |
Similar in genus Symphytum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
