True Comfrey Seeds (Organic)

• Growing Zones: USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9

• Chill Hours: Not typically applicable for comfrey

• Bloom Time: Early to mid-summer

• Approximate Harvest in California: Late spring to early summer

• Looks: Bell-shaped, purple flowers

• Personality: Robust growth, resilient, and easily established

• Facts of Note: Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, historically used in traditional medicine for wound healing; cautioned by the FDA due to potential liver damage if consumed excessively

• Pollinators: Attracts bees and beneficial insects with its flowers, aiding in pollination and garden biodiversityScientifically known as Symphytum officinale var. patens, holds a revered place in the realm of permaculture practices. Understanding the intricacies of growing this herbaceous perennial sheds light on its diverse applications and beneficial properties.

Origins and Characteristics: 

Symphytum officinale, a member of the borage family, is a herbaceous perennial native to Europe and exhibits hardiness, tolerating temperatures as low as -15 degrees F. The plant's vibrant, dangling flowers in shades of vivid purple add to its allure.

Cultivation: 

True Comfrey thrives in various climates and soil types, displaying resilience in different conditions. While it prefers well-draining soil, it can adapt to different soil compositions. Planting in partial shade to full sun encourages healthy growth, and spacing plants around 24 inches apart provides ample room for expansion.

Planting Process: 

Propagation primarily occurs through root divisions or cuttings rather than seeds. Planting root cuttings about 3 to 4 inches deep aids in their establishment. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist during the initial growth phase to support root development.

Care and Maintenance: 

Comfrey demands minimal maintenance once established. Regular watering, particularly during dry spells, assists in robust growth. Mulching around the base of the plant retains moisture and suppresses weed growth. Pruning after flowering helps control the plant's size and encourages fresh growth.

Varieties and Uses: 

Varieties like Symphytum x uplandicum, commonly known as Russian comfrey, or prickly comfrey, showcase slightly different growth patterns or leaf shapes. Comfrey's versatility extends to permaculture practices where it serves as a dynamic accumulator, drawing nutrients from the soil into its leaves, which can later be used as a natural fertilizer.

True Comfrey, or Symphytum officinale var. patens, hails from Europe and thrives in harsh conditions, enduring temperatures as low as -15°F. Renowned for its healing properties in herbal medicine, especially in mitigating inflammation like osteoarthritis, it's also a staple in permaculture and animal feed. Its vivid purple, dangling flowers add aesthetic appeal to its medicinal value.

Certified organic, 20 seeds per packet.

Photo by Aiwok

Shipping Weight: 0.01 lb

Dimensions: 5.0"L x 2.625"W x 0.1"H

• Attracts Bees/Butterflies
• Cold Hardy
• Container Compatible
• Does Not Require Support
• Down to 25°F
• Good for Drying
• Open-Pollinated
• Plant Spreads
• Requires Summer Water