Symphytum officinale Boraginaceae

CULTIVATION A hardy, herbaceous perennial with long, lance-shaped, dull-green leaves, comfrey has mauve-blue, bell-shaped flowers from midsummer. It grows to a height of 1m (3 ft) and prefers well-drained, fertile soil. Start with a small plant and, for more plants, divide it during early spring or late summer, planting them 50cm (20m) apart. A useful garden or border herb.