About
Clump-forming perennial, to 60cm tall and wide, spreading by rhizomes, with coarse, hairy, deeply-veined, dark green leaves and hairy stems. Small clusters of pale creamy-yellow, pendent flowers are borne in early summer.
About the genus
Symphytum are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials, sometimes invasive, with large leaves and nodding clusters of tubular flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope, N Africa, SW Asia
ToxicityHarmful if eaten repeatedly. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 17890,symplocarpus-foetidus,Symplocarpus foetidus,foetid pothos,This garden-worthy Symplocarpus selection
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, moist soil in sun or partial shade. Be aware the plant growth can be vigorous once established and has the potential to become a nuisance, so will require appropriate management
PruningCut back after flowering to encourage neat, young foliage
PropagationPropagate by division of fleshy roots in spring or from root cuttings in early winter
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free