Comfrey

Comfrey

Symphytum officinale

Comfrey is a vigorous perennial herb with large, lush leaves and nodding bell-shaped flowers. Its deep roots bring nutrients from lower soil layers, while its abundant foliage can be harvested for compost, mulch, and nutrient-rich plant teas. Comfrey is especially useful in edible landscapes and permaculture gardens where productive plants serve multiple functions.

Size at maturity: 2–4' tall, 2–3' wide
Light: Full sun to part shade
Water: Medium moisture; prefers fertile soil
Bloom time: May–July
Wildlife: Flowers provide nectar for bees and other pollinators
Special features & uses: Dynamic accumulator; excellent biomass plant; compost and mulch material; long-lived perennial; pollinator friendly

Plant with: Rhubarb and other productive perennials in food forests, or self-heal and geum around orchard trees and garden edges.

Perfect for food forests, orchards, garden edges, and permaculture systems. Give it a permanent location, as established plants can be difficult to remove and may spread.