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Description
Symphytum Orientale, also known as the Oriental comfrey or healing herb, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. This plant is native to the Caucasus region, but it is now grown in many parts of the world. Symphytum Orientale has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, especially for healing wounds and broken bones.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Symphytum |
Appearance
Symphytum Orientale grows up to 2-3 feet tall and has a spread of 1-2 feet. The leaves are large, coarse, and hairy, with a dark green color and a rough texture. The flowers are bell-shaped, pink, or purple, and bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant prefers a moist environment and can thrive in partial shade to full sun.
Care Guide
To take care of Symphytum Orientale, you need to provide it with enough water, fertilization, and sunlight. The plant requires frequent watering, especially in hot weather, to keep the soil moist. It also needs to be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The ideal soil for Symphytum Orientale is fertile, well-drained, and rich in organic matter. You can grow this plant in hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Symphytum Orientale is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot, especially when grown in poorly drained soil. You can prevent this by ensuring that the soil is well-drained and not overwatering the plant. In addition, slugs and snails can feed on the leaves of the plant, causing damage. You can control these pests by handpicking them or using slug and snail bait.
Habitat
Symphytum Orientale is native to the Caucasus region, but it is now grown in many parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia. This plant prefers a moist environment and can grow in partial shade or full sun. It can be grown in gardens, borders, or as a groundcover.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Symphytum Orientale toxic?
A: Yes, Symphytum Orientale contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
Q: How do you propagate Symphytum Orientale?
A: You can propagate Symphytum Orientale by dividing the root clumps in the spring or fall.
Q: Can Symphytum Orientale be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Symphytum Orientale has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, especially for healing wounds and broken bones.
Q: How tall does Symphytum Orientale grow?
A: Symphytum Orientale can grow up to 2-3 feet tall.
Related Plants
- Symphytum asperum
- Symphytum caucasicum
- Symphytum officinale
- Symphytum tuberosum
References
- “Symphytum orientale.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=p930.
- “Symphytum orientale – Plant Finder.” www.gardenia.net/plant/symphytum-orientale.
- “Oriental Comfrey Plant: Growing Symphytum Oriental In The Garden.” Gardening Know How. www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/oriental-comfrey-plant.htm.
