Goldsmith Comfrey

Goldsmith Comfrey (Symphytum 'Goldsmith')

Goldsmith Comfrey (Symphytum 'Goldsmith') is a striking perennial known for its bold variegated foliage and clusters of nodding, bell-shaped flowers. This vigorous, low-maintenance plant is perfect for shaded gardens, woodland borders, and naturalized plantings, where its unique foliage and reliable growth make it an eye-catching addition.

Distinctive Features

'Goldsmith' features large, textured green leaves adorned with striking golden-yellow variegation, creating a luminous effect in shaded areas. In late spring to early summer, soft pink to blue tubular flowers emerge in clusters, attracting pollinators like bees. This variety spreads slowly through underground rhizomes, forming a dense, weed-suppressing ground cover. It grows 18 to 24 inches tall and spreads up to 3 feet, making it an excellent choice for filling in garden gaps.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial to full shade.
• Soil: Prefers rich, well-drained, moist soil but adapts to various conditions.
• Water: Moderate to high moisture needs; does not tolerate drought.
• Humidity: Performs well in humid woodland environments.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9, making it widely adaptable.

Ideal Uses

• Shade Gardens: Adds color and texture in low-light areas.
• Woodland Borders: Blends beautifully with ferns and hostas.
• Ground Cover: Forms a lush, weed-suppressing carpet.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees with its bell-shaped blooms.
• Erosion Control: Ideal for stabilizing shaded slopes.

Low Maintenance Care

Goldsmith Comfrey is a resilient perennial that requires minimal upkeep once established.

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially in dry periods.
• Pruning: Cut back foliage in late fall for a fresh flush in spring.
• Fertilizing: Benefits from organic mulch or compost in spring.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Highly resistant to deer and rabbits.
• Winter Care: Dies back in winter; fresh growth emerges in spring.

Why Choose Goldsmith Comfrey?

Goldsmith Comfrey offers a striking combination of bold variegation, reliable growth, and pollinator-friendly blooms, making it a valuable addition to shaded gardens.

• Unique Gold-Variegated Foliage: Adds brightness to shaded areas.
• Early Blooming Flowers: Supports pollinators with nectar-rich blossoms.
• Low-Maintenance and Hardy: Thrives with minimal care.
• Excellent Ground Cover: Suppresses weeds and stabilizes soil.
• Deer and Rabbit Resistant: Ideal for wildlife-prone gardens.

For a bold, shade-loving perennial with standout foliage and seasonal blooms, Goldsmith Comfrey (Symphytum 'Goldsmith') is an excellent choice.