Overview
Symphytum × uplandicum 'Variegatum' is a perennial herb in the genus Symphytum, part of the Boraginaceae family. Symphytum × uplandicum 'Variegatum' 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 ground cover, borders and wildlife gardens.
About
Symphytum × uplandicum 'Variegatum' is a perennial herb in the borage family notable for its variegated foliage. It flowers in the UK from April to June. Plants prefer moist, loamy, well-drained soil with a neutral to alkaline pH and will tolerate full sun or partial shade. The leaves contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids and are toxic if ingested, so avoid use where children or livestock might feed.
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 × uplandicum 'Variegatum' is a perennial herb in the Boraginaceae with distinctive variegated leaves and spring flowering from April to June. Give it a position in full sun or partial shade on moist, loamy, well-drained soil; it will tolerate sheltered or more exposed spots and is rated H5, meaning it is hardy in typical UK garden conditions. Neutral to alkaline soils suit it best. Set plants where soil remains reliably moist rather than bone-dry; although the soil should drain, a steady supply of moisture supports healthy foliage. Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, and avoid siting in acid or very dry, sandy soils. It can be left to spread where ground cover is wanted, or used as a foil in mixed borders; it also performs well in wildlife-focused areas where shelter and moisture are present. Do not consume any part of the plant: it contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids and is toxic if ingested, so keep it away from grazing animals and from beds intended for culinary herbs. The variegated leaves remain the plant's primary interest outside the April–June flowering period, so place it where the foliage can be seen.
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 × uplandicum 'Variegatum' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herb
- Suggested uses
- ground cover, borders, wildlife gardens
- Toxicity
- contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, toxic if ingested
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Symphytum × uplandicum 'Variegatum'
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, fertile soil; tolerate partial shade; avoid waterlogging.
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.
- Propagation
- division, root cuttings
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Symphytum × uplandicum 'Variegatum'?
Prefers moist, fertile soil; tolerate partial shade; avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Symphytum × uplandicum 'Variegatum'?
Symphytum × uplandicum 'Variegatum' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered and exposed positions.
What soil does Symphytum × uplandicum 'Variegatum' need?
Symphytum × uplandicum 'Variegatum' 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 × uplandicum 'Variegatum'?
Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.
Is Symphytum × uplandicum 'Variegatum' hardy in the UK?
Symphytum × uplandicum 'Variegatum' 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 × uplandicum 'Variegatum'?
Division, root cuttings.
Is Symphytum × uplandicum 'Variegatum' toxic?
Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, toxic if ingested.