Red Comfrey
Symphytum rubrum
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested; contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids
The Story
Plant Bio
Symphytum rubrum is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its robust, basal leaves and tall flower stalks bearing clusters of bell-shaped, reddish-pink flowers, often with a hint of purple or white. This species is valued for its rapid growth and medicinal properties, with some cultivars displaying enhanced flower coloration and drought tolerance.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or root cuttings into moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
- Apply compost around the base in spring for nutrients.
- Divide root clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth.
Pro Tip
Use root cuttings for faster propagation; keep soil moist during initial weeks.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Divide clumps every few years
- Prune after flowering
Don't
- Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce medicinal properties ❌
- Don't let soil dry out completely
- Avoid planting in overly shaded areas
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Red Comfrey questions
What zones can Red Comfrey grow in?
Red Comfrey is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Red Comfrey deer resistant?
Yes — Red Comfrey is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Red Comfrey bloom?
Red Comfrey typically blooms in late spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Red Comfrey need full sun?
Red Comfrey does best in part shade.
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Grow Red Comfrey with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
