Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is an aggressive grower and herbal member of the Borage family (Boraginaceae). For several centuries it has been grown for its medicinal herbal value with purported healing properties for treating joint pains and wounds. Leaves are poisonous if ingested and can cause skin irritation. Plant grows up to 5 feet tall and produces clusters of purple, blue, and white flowers, long slender leaves, and black-skinned roots.

Russian comfrey (Symphytum × uplandicum) is a coarse-textured, hairy-leaf perennial. This herbal species is grown for its attractive multi-seasonal foliage and bell-shaped spring flowers. Russian comfrey is a strikingly bold species that grows in waste areas and disturbed soils in the Caucasus Mountains. (USDA hardiness zones 4-9).

‘Axminster Gold’ comfrey is an exceptional vigorous form with stunning gold, green and variegated foliage. It spreads aggressively via creeping rhizomes. Each plant typically grows in a rosette habit to 18 inches high with a spread to 24-30 inches wide. Drooping clusters of mauve pink bells bloom in late spring to early summer atop stems rising from the foliage mound to 4-5 feet tall and 2-4 feet in width. Blooms attract hordes of bees.

Comfrey is easy to grow in average, medium moist, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. It performs at its best in moist, humus-rich soils. Best leaf variegation occurs with some partial afternoon shade, particularly where summers are intensely hot in Southern climes. Eventually, comfrey tends to become a garden thug and may be difficult to dig out. Simply leaving a small piece of root will generate a new plant.

Propagation is by root cuttings or division. Trim foliage as needed to shape plant. Cutting back stems promptly after flowering will encourage reblooming. If growing as a foliage plant, snip away flowering stems as they develop.

No serious insect or disease problems trouble this aggressive growing perennial. Slugs and snails may attack the foliage. Powdery mildew infestation may occur over an unusually rainy summer.

‘Axminister Gold’ comfrey availability is primarily limited to specialty plant nurseries online.