The herb comfray has a multitude of uses, especially medicinal, and can make a great addition to any garden. Not only does it look beautiful and therefore can be grown just for ornamental purposes, but it's also easy to grow, so keep reading to learn how to grow comfrey & care for it!
What is Comfrey?
Also known as knitbone or slippery root, comfrey has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. They were used primarily to treat bronchial issues as well as to stop heavy bleeding.
Comfrey is a perennial herb that likes to spread and will reach a height of about 4 feet. Native to Europe and Asia, this plant thrives in moist, shady locations, and will bear long flowers in May. The leaves are about 10 inches in length, green in color, and a little fuzzy like oregano.
How to Grow Comfrey:
- Comfrey plants require a climate in hardiness zone USDA 3-9.
- The soil should be rich, moist, and alkaline with a pH of 6.7-7.3.
- Plan to plant in a shaded area, or half sun half shade location.
- Sow comfrey seeds in fall or early spring directly into the ground or in a cold frame.
- The comfrey plant is drought and frost hardy, so very little care is required.
- Simply keep the soil moist at all times!
How to Use Comfrey:
One of the best ways to use comfrey is to make a tea. Its medicinal benefits can help with a slew of ailments. Comfrey contains high amounts of allantioin (found in mother's nursing milk) which is said to increase the rate of cell growth, heal wounds and burns more quickly, and promotes healthy skin and hair.
Comfrey can also be added to beauty products such as cream and lotions, as well as added to baths to soothe skin.
So now that you know how to grow comfrey, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to planting!
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