Symphytum ibericum

Symphytum ibericum is a striking perennial plant that produces cream and yellow flowers all summer long over large, lush leaves.

The flowers of this variety shift colors. They begin in a flame orange tone and slowly shift into a creamy yellow palette.  Bell shaped, they are extremely popular with the local pollinators – bumblebees, in particular.

The leaves are great and somewhat coarse, covered in fine hairs that allow this plant to be both hardy and drought tolerant.

Comfrey is often used as a ground cover or for naturalizing areas in gardens due to its ability to spread and form dense foliage.

When we say dense – we mean basically impenetrable. So if you have trouble with weeds, Miss Comfrey will sort that out in a summer breeze.

TIPS: Deadheading after flowering can help maintain its appearance and prevent excessive spreading. If needed, it can be cut back to control its growth.

NOTA BENE: As with all comfrey varieties, this one has the potential to be invasive – so make sure you are ready to tame her with fencing or rocks.

The Tale:

Although it is not as commonly used as its siblings-species (in particular Symphytum officinale), this comfrey has similar traditional applications for topical use – such as soothing skin irritations and minor wounds.

Be Warned: do not ingest as there is toxic potential for humans.