Symphytum officinale
Comfrey
Boraginaceae
Deciduous, Evergreen, Herbs, Perennials
From Eurasia. Deep-rooted plant forms a clump to 3 to 4 ft. high, 2 ft. wide. Furry leaves set with stiff hairs; basal leaves 8 in. or longer, upper leaves smaller. Small (1/2-in.-long), unshowy flowers are usually dull rose in color but sometimes white, cream, or purple. In virtually frost-free climates, plant remains leafy through winter; elsewhere, it dies to the ground in fall.
Comfrey has a long history as a folk remedy. Leaves can be dried and brewed to make a medicinal tea, though this use is no longer recommended (leaves have been found to contain potentially carcinogenic substances). Herb enthusiasts claim that the plant adds minerals to compost, but think hard before establishing it in your garden: it spreads freely from roots and is difficult to eradicate.
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