Eastern Comfrey
symphytum orientale
Also known as: ["Rusian Comfrey","Common Comfrey"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its medicinal properties and ability to fix nitrogen in the soil.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Symphytum |
| Botanical Name: | Symphytum orientale |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, fertile, well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
rich, moist, well-draining soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend with organic matter for fertility; check pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler conditions but avoid frost.
Protect from frost, avoid sudden temperature swings, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of root clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone (optional), plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; ensure bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged stems, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root-bound plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil mix, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if exposed to prolonged cold below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, avoid watering excessively in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSymphytum orientale is toxic to cats due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, which can cause severe liver toxicity and failure. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Symphytum orientale are toxic to dogs, causing liver damage and potential failure. Prolonged ingestion can lead to chronic liver conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSymphytum orientale contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause severe liver damage upon ingestion. Chronic exposure may lead to cirrhosis or liver failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Symphytum orientale safe for pets?
A: No, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Eastern Comfrey?
A: It has been traditionally used for wound healing and reducing inflammation.
Q: Does Eastern Comfrey attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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