Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum' (Creeping Comfrey) — Perennial

Overview

Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum' is a perennial in the genus Symphytum, part of the Boraginaceae family. It typically grows around 0.4 m tall. Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum' grows best in full shade, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include groundcover. It is native to Caucasus.

About the genus

Symphytum is a genus of flowering plants in the borage family, Boraginaceae, known by the common name comfrey.

Wikipedia contributors, "Symphytum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Symphytum

In the garden

Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum' is a perennial in the borage family originating from the Caucasus. As a ground cover it stays low to the ground, forming a permanent understorey where trees or tall shrubs provide shade. In the UK it reliably flowers from April to June. Give it full shade to shade exposure and soil that remains moist but drains freely; it will accept sandy, loamy or clay textures. Height is about 0.4 m, and the cultivar is fully hardy in UK conditions (H7) and also suits USDA zones 3–9. Space plants to form an even cover and keep soil evenly damp during establishment. Use it to suppress weeds and knit borders where a low layer is needed beneath larger plants. Its low habit and April–June flowering make it useful for creating a continuous shaded carpet that will conceal bare ground through spring and early summer.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Symphytum

Sunlight: Full shade
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Exposure: Shade
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Height: 0.4 m
Suggested uses: Groundcover
Native to: Caucasus

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum'

Propagation: Division, Seed

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum'?

Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum' prefers full shade. It suits shade positions.

What soil does Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum' need?

Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How big does Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum' grow?

Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum' reaches a height of 0.4 m.

Is Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum' hardy in the UK?

Symphytum grandiflorum 'Variegatum' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.