Russian Comfrey
Basic Information
Common Name: Russian Comfrey
Scientific Name: Symphytum x uplandicum
Native Habitat: Europe, Asia
History / Discovery / Cultivator
Russian Comfrey, scientifically known as Symphytum x uplandicum, is a hybrid plant, specifically a cross between Symphytum asperum (Rough Comfrey) and Symphytum officinale (Common Comfrey). This hybrid origin gives it unique characteristics that have made it a valuable plant for various applications.
The “discovery” of Russian Comfrey, in the sense of recognizing its distinct hybrid nature and potential, is intertwined with agricultural and ecological research. While Symphytum officinale has a long history of traditional medicinal use in Europe, the hybrid Symphytum x uplandicum gained prominence in the 20th century primarily due to its superior biomass production and nutrient uptake capabilities compared to its parent species.
Lawrence D. Hills, a British horticulturist and founder of the Henry Doubleday Research Association (HDRA, now Garden Organic), played a pivotal role in popularizing Russian Comfrey, specifically the ‘Bocking No. 14’ cultivar. Hills recognized its potential as a valuable source of organic matter, animal feed, and a nutrient-rich fertilizer. He dedicated years to researching and promoting its use within organic gardening and farming systems. The ‘Bocking No. 14’ cultivar, in particular, is sterile (non-seeding), which is advantageous as it prevents the plant from becoming an invasive weed. This sterility made it a desirable cultivar for widespread cultivation.
The geographical origins of Russian Comfrey trace back to the regions where its parent species, Symphytum asperum and Symphytum officinale, naturally occur. These regions include various parts of Europe and Asia. The hybridization likely occurred in these areas, with the resulting hybrid subsequently selected and propagated for its beneficial traits. Russian Comfrey’s cultivation then spread globally, facilitated by its promotion as a valuable resource for sustainable agriculture and gardening.
The popularity of Russian Comfrey surged during the organic farming movement as gardeners and farmers looked for natural ways to improve soil fertility and feed livestock. Its deep roots help to mine nutrients from the subsoil, and its high biomass yield allows for multiple harvests per year. The leaves are rich in potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen, making them excellent for composting or direct application to the soil as a mulch. Though the use of comfrey for internal medicinal uses has been cautioned due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) content, its external uses in poultices and topical applications have remained popular for some.
In summary, Russian Comfrey’s journey involves its emergence as a superior hybrid, its popularization by figures like Lawrence D. Hills for its agricultural benefits, and its subsequent adoption by organic gardeners and farmers worldwide. Its sterile cultivars ensure its ease of management, while its remarkable biomass production and nutrient accumulation continue to make it a valuable component of sustainable land management practices.
Plant Care Summary
| Category | General Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to partial shade | Tolerates a wide range of light conditions, but prefers full sun for optimal growth. |
| Water | Moderate | Keep soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season. |
| Humidity | Moderate | Not particularly sensitive to humidity levels. |
| Temp. Range | Hardy | Tolerates a wide range of temperatures; generally hardy in temperate climates. |
| Soil Type | Well-draining | Prefers fertile, well-draining soil, but adapts to various soil types. |
| Fertilizer | Not required | Generally not needed if grown in fertile soil; occasional compost application is beneficial. |
| Toxicity | Toxic | Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs); can cause liver damage if ingested in large quantities. |
Botanical Insights
Adaptations
Russian Comfrey exhibits several notable adaptations. Its deep taproot allows it to access water and nutrients deep within the soil profile, making it drought-tolerant and efficient at nutrient uptake. This is particularly beneficial in nutrient-poor soils. The plant’s rapid growth rate and high biomass production are also significant adaptations, allowing it to quickly establish and outcompete other plants. Furthermore, the slightly hairy leaves provide a degree of protection against herbivores and reduce water loss through transpiration. Its ability to regrow quickly after being cut back multiple times per season is also a vital adaptation for a plant so often cultivated for its leaves.
Propagation Methods
Russian Comfrey is commonly propagated through root cuttings or crown division. Root cuttings are typically taken in late autumn or early spring. Sections of root, about 2-3 inches long, are planted horizontally in pots or directly into the ground. Crown division involves separating the plant’s crown into smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots, and planting them individually. Seed propagation is not viable for sterile cultivars like ‘Bocking No. 14’.
Toxicology
Russian Comfrey contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which are toxic to the liver. Ingestion of large quantities of comfrey can lead to liver damage, including veno-occlusive disease (VOD). Symptoms of PA poisoning include abdominal pain, jaundice, and ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen). While external use is considered less risky, it is still advised to avoid using comfrey on broken skin or for extended periods. For pets, ingestion can cause similar liver damage. Symptoms in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and jaundice. Contact a veterinarian immediately if your pet has ingested comfrey.
Common Problems
Pests:
- Slugs
- Snails
- Aphids
Diseases:
- Powdery mildew
- Rust
- Leaf spot
Other:
- Leaf yellowing: Can be caused by nutrient deficiencies (e.g., nitrogen) or overwatering.
- Stunted growth: May result from poor soil conditions, insufficient sunlight, or root rot.
- Spread: Can spread aggressively through root fragments, so containment may be necessary in gardens.
Rarity & Value
Rarity:
Russian Comfrey itself isn’t particularly rare, especially common cultivars like ‘Bocking No. 14’. However, specific cultivars with unique characteristics, such as unusual leaf shapes or coloration, might be less common and more sought after by collectors. The plant is not endangered in its native habitat, and propagation is relatively straightforward (excluding sterile varieties), reducing the likelihood of true scarcity.
Value:
The value of Russian Comfrey lies primarily in its utility as a soil amendment, animal feed, and potential biomass source. Individual plants are not typically sold at high prices. However, the value can increase if the plant is a particularly large or well-established specimen. The “provenance” (history and origin) of the plant is not a significant factor. The key determinant is the plant’s health and suitability for its intended purpose (e.g., composting, feeding livestock).
