Overview
Symphytum ibericum variegated (v) is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Symphytum, part of the Boraginaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Symphytum ibericum variegated (v) grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens, flower borders and beds and ground cover.
About
Symphytum ibericum variegated is a cultivar of the Symphytum genus, a group of herbaceous perennials known for their rhizomatous growth and broad leaves. This clump-forming plant is deciduous and thrives in full sun or partial shade, tolerating a range of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, with varying pH levels. It prefers fertile, moist but well-drained soil and is hardy to UK zone H7. Suitable for cottage and informal gardens, wildlife gardens, flower borders, and as ground cover, it flowers in spring and summer and can be propagated by division or root cuttings.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Symphytum
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Symphytum ibericum variegated (v) size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds, Ground cover
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Symphytum ibericum variegated (v)
- Propagation
- Division of fleshy roots in spring, Root cuttings in early winter
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Symphytum ibericum variegated (v)?
Symphytum ibericum variegated (v) prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Symphytum ibericum variegated (v) need?
Symphytum ibericum variegated (v) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to poorly-drained.
Is Symphytum ibericum variegated (v) hardy in the UK?
Symphytum ibericum variegated (v) has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Symphytum ibericum variegated (v)?
Division of fleshy roots in spring, Root cuttings in early winter.
More in the Symphytum genus
- Symphytum 'Langthorns Pink'

- Symphytum ibericum 'All Gold'
- Symphytum tauricumCrimean comfrey

- Symphytum 'Angela Whinfield'
- Symphytum 'Empire'
- Symphytum 'Moorland Heather'Comfrey
- Symphytum caucasicum pale blue-flowered
- Symphytum cycladense