Prickly Comfrey (Symphytum asperum)

Family: Boraginaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Symphytum asperum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pleasant eating for most tastes. — The following reports are for S.; officinale, they are said to also apply to this species.; Young leaves - cooked or raw.; The leaf is hairy and the texture is mucilaginous.

Habitat & North American Range

Waste places in Britain. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)