Russian Comfrey

Symphytum × uplandicum – Russian Comfrey

Russian comfrey is a sterile hybrid of Symphytum officinale and Symphytum asperum, widely valued in permaculture and edible landscaping systems. It produces vigorous clumps of large, rough-textured leaves and tall flowering stalks bearing white, purple, or blue blooms.

This plant is primarily used as a nutrient accumulator and soil improver. Deep roots mine minerals from the subsoil, and the fast-growing foliage can be cut multiple times per season to use as mulch or compost material. It is especially useful planted in orchard edges or perennial guilds.

Once established, Russian comfrey is extremely hardy and difficult to eradicate due to its strong root system. It performs best in fertile soils with good moisture but adapts to a wide range of conditions.

Spacing: 4-foot circles
USDA Zones: 3–9
Pollination: Sterile (does not set viable seed)

Plant Characteristics

• Pest Resistance: Excellent
• Disease Resistance: Excellent
• Drought Tolerance: Good
• Heat Tolerance: Excellent
• Humidity Tolerance: Excellent
• Sun Tolerance: Excellent
• Wet Soil Tolerance: Fair
• Shade Tolerance: Good
• No Spray Potential: Excellent
• Salt Tolerance: Poor
• Thorns: No
• Soil Type: Fertile
• Self Fertile: Yes

This information is accurate to the best of our knowledge. Comments and observations are always welcome.