Bulbous Comfrey
symphytum bulbosum
Also known as: ["Bulbous Comfrey","Bulbous Symphytum"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its bulbous root system and medicinal properties.
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 bulbosum |
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":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for better drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing only dead or yellowing foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
rich, well-draining loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; reduce watering in cold periods.
Avoid drafty areas; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division; seeds germinate best in cool temperatures; division is best in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or divide clumps.
- Maintain moisture.
- Provide warmth and light.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Early spring for division; sow seeds in late winter or early spring.
Environment
Cool temperatures (50–65°F), high humidity, and indirect light for seeds; similar conditions for division.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix for seeds; regular potting mix for division.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; rooting hormone can help with division if roots are damaged.
Timeline
Seeds: 2–4 weeks for germination; division: immediate establishment with proper care.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, pruners, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds shallowly; keep soil consistently moist; divide only when plant is dormant or actively growing.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean cuts; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; sanitize tools; prune carefully; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water 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 until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 organic matter for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf yellowing, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and reduce watering to prevent cold-induced rot.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSymphytum bulbosum is toxic to cats due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, which can result in liver damage and potential failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Symphytum bulbosum can cause severe liver damage in dogs, leading to hepatotoxicity and potential liver failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSymphytum bulbosum contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause liver damage upon ingestion. Chronic exposure may lead to severe liver fibrosis and even cirrhosis.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Symphytum bulbosum edible?
A: While some parts have traditional medicinal uses, it is generally considered mildly toxic and not recommended for culinary consumption.
Q: How does Symphytum bulbosum grow?
A: It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial to full sun, with a bulbous root system that helps it survive winter.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Symphytum bulbosum?
A: Traditionally used for wound healing and bone repair due to compounds like allantoin, though modern use requires caution due to toxicity concerns.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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