Tuberous comfrey (Symphytum tuberosum)

Family: Boraginaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Symphytum tuberosum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) 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: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

When roasted until brown and brittle, and then finely ground, the root is used as a coffee substitute. It has a smoothness that is not found in real coffee. — When roasted until brown and brittle, and then finely ground, the root is used as a coffee substitute.; It has a smoothness that is not found in real coffee.

Habitat & North American Range

Woods, scrub and by rivers. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)