Contents
Description
Symphytum Caucasicum, also known as Caucasian comfrey, is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to the Caucasus Mountains in Eastern Europe. It belongs to the Boraginaceae family and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Symphytum |
Appearance
Symphytum Caucasicum can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width. It has broad, lance-shaped leaves that are covered in small, prickly hairs. The plant produces clusters of white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer. The roots of Symphytum Caucasicum are long and fleshy, and are used in medicinal preparations.
Care Guide
Symphytum Caucasicum prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade. It should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. The plant can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Symphytum Caucasicum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Symphytum Caucasicum is native to the Caucasus Mountains in Eastern Europe, but it can also be found in other parts of Europe and Asia. It grows in damp, shady areas such as riverbanks and woodland edges.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Symphytum Caucasicum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as it has enough room to grow and the soil is kept moist.
Q: Is Symphytum Caucasicum toxic?
A: While the leaves and stems of the plant contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, the roots are safe to use in medicinal preparations when used properly.
Q: Can Symphytum Caucasicum be used for wound healing?
A: Yes, the roots of Symphytum Caucasicum have been traditionally used for wound healing and to reduce inflammation.
Q: How often should Symphytum Caucasicum be fertilized?
A: Symphytum Caucasicum can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once in the spring.
Related Plants
- Symphytum officinale
- Symphytum grandiflorum
- Symphytum asperum
- Symphytum x uplandicum
References
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286228&isprofile=0&basic=Symphytum%20caucasicum
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/symphytum-caucasicum-caucasian-comfrey
- https://www.herbazest.com/herbs/symphytum-caucasicum
