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Description
Symphytum Grandiflorum, commonly known as Large-flowered comfrey or Blue comfrey, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to the Caucasus region of Eurasia. It belongs to the family Boraginaceae and is a popular garden plant due to its attractive blue flowers and large hairy leaves. The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and blooms in early summer, attracting bees and other pollinators. It has a long history of medicinal use for its healing properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Symphytum |
Appearance
The leaves of Symphytum Grandiflorum are large, hairy, and green in color. They can grow up to 30 cm long and 15 cm wide. The plant produces tall stems that can reach up to 1 meter in height, with clusters of bell-shaped blue flowers that bloom in early summer. The flowers are around 2 cm in diameter and have five petals. The plant has a deep taproot that helps it to survive in dry conditions.
Care Guide
Symphytum Grandiflorum is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Symphytum Grandiflorum is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Symphytum Grandiflorum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by slugs and snails, which can damage the leaves and flowers. To prevent this, remove any debris from around the plant and use a slug and snail bait if necessary.
Habitat
Symphytum Grandiflorum is native to the Caucasus region of Eurasia and is commonly found in meadows and grasslands. It prefers well-drained soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Symphytum Grandiflorum safe to use for medicinal purposes?
A: While Symphytum Grandiflorum has a long history of medicinal use, it contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can be toxic if consumed in large amounts. It is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional before using this plant for medicinal purposes.Q: How often should I water Symphytum Grandiflorum?
A: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Watering once a week should be sufficient, but adjust according to the weather and soil conditions.Q: How do I propagate Symphytum Grandiflorum?
A: Symphytum Grandiflorum can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and separate the root clumps, then replant in well-drained soil.Q: Can Symphytum Grandiflorum tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Symphytum Grandiflorum has a deep taproot that helps it to survive in dry conditions. However, it is still important to water the plant regularly during periods of drought.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants in the Symphytum genus:
- Symphytum asperum
- Symphytum caucasicum
- Symphytum officinale
- Symphytum tuberosum
References
- “Symphytum grandiflorum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 27 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278771&isprofile=0&basic=symphytum%20grandiflorum>.
- “Symphytum grandiflorum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 27 May 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12390/Symphytum-grandiflorum/Details>.
- “Symphytum grandiflorum.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 27 May 2021. <http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:116432-1>.
