Plant library
Herb
Comfrey
Symphytum officinale
Zones 4–9
The permaculture multitool: chop-and-drop mulch, compost activator, and the best companion a fruit tree ever had.
Sun
Full sun to part shade
Water
moderate
Spacing
36 in apart
Soil
Rich, moist soil — deep taproot
Difficulty
easy
Zones
4–9
When to plant
Mar
Apr
Sep
Oct
Timing shifts with your zone — the Genie can pin down exact dates for you.
How to care for it
The permaculture multi-tool: a deep taproot mines potassium from the subsoil. Chop leaves 4-5 times a season for instant compost activator, mulch, or nutrient tea. Wear gloves when handling.
Good companions
Underplant fruit trees — the classic guild plant
Harvest
Cut the whole plant to 2 in when it reaches about 3 ft.
Want a plan for growing Comfrey?
Your Genie can give exact timing and care for your zone.
