Overview
Symphytum rubrum of gardens is a perennial herb in the genus Symphytum, part of the Boraginaceae family. Symphytum rubrum of gardens grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loamy and well-drained soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, ground cover and medicinal garden. It is native to Europe.
About
Symphytum rubrum of gardens is a perennial herb in the Boraginaceae grown for its concentrated bloom from April to June. It belongs to the genus Symphytum and originates from Europe. Plants suit moist, loamy, neutral to alkaline soils and will tolerate full sun or partial shade. Handle with care: repeated ingestion is harmful and gloves are recommended when working with the foliage.
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 rubrum of gardens is a European perennial herb in the borage family (Boraginaceae) valued for a spring display that runs April to June. The species sits within the Symphytum genus and is used in traditional and garden contexts where a reliable early-season flowering period is wanted. Select a site that offers either full sun or partial shade and a loamy, well-drained soil that remains moist rather than drying out. Aim for a neutral to alkaline pH and a situation that can be either sheltered or exposed; the plant carries an H5 hardiness rating (hardy) in UK conditions. Regular moisture and a steady soil structure suit its growth habit best, so avoid thin, very sandy or permanently waterlogged ground. Comfrey 'Rubrum' works well at the back of mixed borders, as a ground cover in larger beds, or within a medicinal herb area where spring flowers are useful. Note that repeated ingestion is harmful to humans and some small pets; wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling, and keep the plant away from rabbits and rodents. For gardeners keeping animals or small children, position the planting where accidental grazing is unlikely.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Symphytum
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- loamy, well-drained
- Soil pH
- neutral, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Exposure
- sheltered, exposed
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Symphytum rubrum of gardens size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herb
- Suggested uses
- borders, ground cover, medicinal garden
- Native to
- Europe
- Toxicity
- Harmful if eaten repeatedly. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (rabbits, rodents): Harmful if eaten repeatedly - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Symphytum rubrum of gardens
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, fertile soil; tolerant of a range of conditions; avoid waterlogging.
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.
- Propagation
- division, root cuttings
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Symphytum rubrum of gardens?
Prefers moist, fertile soil; tolerant of a range of conditions; avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Symphytum rubrum of gardens?
Symphytum rubrum of gardens prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered and exposed positions.
What soil does Symphytum rubrum of gardens need?
Symphytum rubrum of gardens grows best in loamy and well-drained soil. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Symphytum rubrum of gardens?
Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.
Is Symphytum rubrum of gardens hardy in the UK?
Symphytum rubrum of gardens has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Symphytum rubrum of gardens?
Division, root cuttings.
Is Symphytum rubrum of gardens toxic?
Harmful if eaten repeatedly. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (rabbits, rodents): Harmful if eaten repeatedly - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants.
