Symphytum Officinale Plant - Thompson & Morgan - 9cm Pot
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This Symphytum Officinale plant from Thompson & Morgan is for gardeners seeking natural charm and practical value. Its key benefit is providing beautiful bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators, alongside leaves usable for organic liquid fertilizer. A caveat to be aware of is its vigorous spreading nature, requiring management. This hardy perennial offers seasonal interest, drawing bees and pollinators with its purple, pink, or cream flowers from May to July, while its large, hairy leaves create lush ground cover and can be harvested for beneficial compost tea.
All features
| Model Part Number | 9990399 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Thompson & Morgan |
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FAQs
When is the best time to plant Symphytum Officinale?
The best time to plant is typically in spring or autumn, allowing the plant to establish its roots before extreme weather conditions.
How do I make liquid fertilizer from the leaves?
Chop the leaves and place them in a bucket with water. Cover and let it steep for several weeks, stirring occasionally. Dilute the resulting liquid with water (around 1:10) before applying to plants.
Is this plant safe for pets?
The plant is listed as harmful if eaten, so caution should be exercised. Keep pets away from ingesting any part of the plant.
Can I grow Symphytum Officinale in a pot?
Yes, you can grow it in a pot, but choose a large one to accommodate its root system and vigorous growth. This can also help in controlling its spread.
What is the expected size of the plant?
Mature plants can grow to be quite large, often reaching heights and widths of around 3-4 feet (about 1-1.2 meters), depending on growing conditions.
Why are the images shown for guidance only?
Images are representative of the mature plant and may not reflect the current size or appearance of the plant you receive, especially considering seasonal changes and varying growing conditions.
How often should I divide the plant?
It's generally recommended to divide Symphytum Officinale every 2 to 3 years to manage its size and vigour, and to rejuvenate the plant.
Troubleshooting
Plant is spreading too aggressively.
Divide the plant clumps every 2-3 years during late winter or early spring. Remove unwanted shoots or plants from surrounding areas. Consider planting in a container or a contained border to manage spread.
Leaves appear damaged or yellowed.
This can be due to insufficient water during dry spells or nutrient deficiency. Ensure consistent watering and consider applying a balanced fertilizer if the soil is poor. Remove any badly damaged leaves.
No flowers appearing.
Ensure the plant is receiving adequate sunlight (it prefers sun or partial shade) and has been established for at least one growing season. Very poor soil might also affect flowering.
Skin irritation after handling.
Wear protective gloves when handling the plant, especially when harvesting leaves or dividing clumps. Wash hands and any affected skin thoroughly with soap and water.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Attracts beneficial pollinators like bees.
- Provides a source for homemade organic liquid fertilizer.
- Hardy and returns year after year.
- Adaptable to various soil types, sun, and shade conditions.
- Offers seasonal visual interest with its flowers and foliage.
Cons
- Can spread vigorously and may require management to prevent overgrowth.
- Leaves and roots can be irritants to skin and eyes.
- Harmful if eaten, requiring caution around pets and children.
- Images are for guidance; actual plant appearance may vary due to seasonality and growing conditions.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Planting: Choose a location in your garden that receives either full sun or partial shade. Symphytum Officinale is adaptable to virtually any soil type, making it a low-maintenance choice. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root ball and plant the 9cm pot, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Water thoroughly after planting.
Compatibility: This plant integrates well into mixed borders, wildlife gardens, or vegetable patches where its fertilizer-producing qualities can be utilized. Be mindful of its vigorous growth habit when placing it near less robust plants.
Care: Water regularly during dry periods, especially when the plant is young. To manage its spread, divide the clumps every few years, typically in late winter or early spring. This division also rejuvenates the plant. Harvest leaves for fertilizer by cutting them back before they become too woody. Handle the plant with care, as it can be an irritant to skin and eyes. Wear gloves when handling.
Seasonal Care: In autumn, the plant's foliage will die back. Cut back the dead material or leave it to provide winter protection for the plant's crown. New shoots will emerge in spring.