Cretan Comfrey Plant Care

Cretan Comfrey (Symphytum grandiflorum) belongs to the Boraginaceae family within the Symphytum genus. Cretan Comfrey is native to the Caucasus region, and introduced to various locales in Europe as a garden escapee. Cretan Comfrey is also known as Large-flowered Comfrey.

Cretan Comfrey displays a clumping herbaceous perennial growth habit, reaching up to 2 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. Cretan Comfrey produces bell-shaped flowers in shades of blue, pink, or white.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Symphytum grandiflorum requires watering every 4–7 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Cretan Comfrey thrives in partial shade to full sun.

Symphytum grandiflorum grows best at temperatures of 50–75°F. Cretan Comfrey prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Cretan Comfrey to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Cretan Comfrey every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Cretan Comfrey can be propagated through division, seeds. Similar propagation techniques also apply to comfrey plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Cretan Comfrey is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, slugs. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Cretan Comfrey grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. It survives winters down to planting zone 12a. Cretan Comfrey is native to the Caucasus region, and introduced to various locales in Europe as a garden escapee. In cooler regions, grow Cretan Comfrey as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.