Caucasian Comfrey
symphytum caucasicum
Also known as: ["Przewalski's Comfrey","Russian Comfrey"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Caucasus region, known for its medicinal properties and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Symphytum |
| Botanical Name: | Symphytum caucasicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter and perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows 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 overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
rich, moist, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots drain freely.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost; thrives in moderate humidity.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts, protect from drafts, maintain consistent room temperature.
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 fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of root clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, plastic bag or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to maintain compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to improve air circulation and appearance; shape plant to encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape as desired, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root-bound plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure excess water exits the pot, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
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 pots, avoid cold drafts, protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSymphytum caucasicum is toxic to cats due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, which can lead to 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 caucasicum are toxic to dogs, causing liver damage and potential failure. Even small amounts can be harmful over time.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSymphytum caucasicum 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 caucasicum safe for consumption?
A: No, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested and should not be consumed.
Q: How does Symphytum caucasicum grow?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun and well-drained soil, growing into a bushy perennial.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Symphytum caucasicum?
A: It has been traditionally used for wound healing and as a poultice for bruises and sprains.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
