Common Name: Comfrey
Latin Name: Symphitum Offinicale
Description: Large, bristly leaves 25cm long with clusters of prurple to pink or white flowers. It is best to keep plants in pots or in an area where it doesn’t matter if the plant becomes a bit invasive. Perennial. 80cm.
Harvesting: Harvest leaves frequently to encourage fresh growth from the centre. Wear gloves to stop bristles from irritating skin.
Best Results: If comfrey is looking tired or untidy, refresh plant by cutting off almost all leaves. New growth will soon appear.
Uses: Leaves promote decomposition in compost, or steep leaves in water for two weeks to make liquid compost. Many horse owners make a poultice out of comfrey to draw out bruising on their horses legs.
Companion: Attracts snails away from other plants so that they are easy to find and squash. Any snail-eaten leaves can be used as compost.