Symphytum grandiflorum aka Creeping Comfrey

Symphytum grandiflorum is a low perennial called dwarf comfrey. It belongs to the borage family, Boraginaceae. Its native range lies in the Caucasus, including Georgia. It grows in a temperate climate and loses its leaves seasonally. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. Plants have become established in some English woods and hedges.

In gardens, it grows about 1–1.6 feet (0.3–0.5 metres) tall. Its spread ranges from 1.5–3.3 feet (0.45–1 metre). Creeping rhizomes send out new roots and shoots. These let clumps expand into a dense ground cover. The green leaves have an oval or elliptical shape. Stiff hairs give them a rough feel and coarse texture. Lower leaves are larger than those on flower stems. RHS records leaves reaching about 0.8 feet (0.25 metres) long. NCSU gives a shorter lower-leaf length of 0.6 feet (0.18 metres).

Red-tinged buds open into cream, pale yellow, or white flowers. The blooms hang in clusters along one side of the stem. Each flower has a tube or bell shape. Flowering falls in May and June, spanning late spring and early summer. The flowers contain both male and female organs. Bumblebees, honey bees, and mason bees pollinate them. Seeds ripen during June and July.

Grow this plant in sun or partial shade. It prefers moist soil that drains well, with moderate fertility. It accepts clay, loam, sand, and a broad pH range. Sources also record tolerance of drought and deer. Its US hardiness range is zones 5–8. RHS rates it H7 for UK conditions. Use it along borders, on banks, or in woodland gardens. It also suits cottage gardens, shade gardens, and wildlife plantings. Its dense growth provides ground cover as clumps spread. Cut plants back after bloom to renew the foliage. Propagate by division, root cuttings, or seed.

Care is light, but spread can become hard to control. Root pieces left during digging may grow into new plants. Slugs and snails can damage leaves. Sources report no major pest or disease problems. Leaves can supply compost or liquid feed for other plants. PFAF lists no known edible or medicinal uses. RHS warns that repeated eating harms people, rabbits, and rodents. NCSU links its alkaloids with liver damage after repeated consumption. Treat it as an ornamental plant, not a food crop.