Referring to the belief that comfrey helped to heal injuries, 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. It has a long history of use as a medicinal herb for topical and internal injuries, though it is no longer deemed as safe for consumption. It is said that the leaves and roots can be used to treat rashes, swelling, cuts and bruises. One of the many plants called comfrey, this variety grows best in full sun to part shade and well-drained, moist, rich soil. In NC's hot summers, it appreciates some shade from the afternoon sun. It is deer resistant and tolerant to drought and clay soil. Its foliage is a good addition to a compost pile. It can be pruned several times a year and is often used as compost for food crops. A liquid fertilizer can be obtained by soaking the leaves in water for at least one week. The potassium from this plant is great for growing tomatoes. As it easily spreads and will sprout from any root pieces left behind from removal, it can be grown in large containers to better control its spread. Its rapid spreading habit does make it a remarkable candidate for establishing an attractive colony. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or diseases issues. Snails and slugs may damage the foliage. Heavy rains can cause the leaves to droop.
Curated pairwise relationships between this plant and others in the library — who feeds
whom, who competes, who confuses the pests. Green reads as a good pairing, red as one to avoid.
No curated interactions recorded for this species yet.
Also noted by NC State
Related species the NC State Plant Toolbox flags for this plant — look-alikes to tell
apart, and plants that play a similar role in a planting. Ones we carry in the library are linked.