PLANT OF THE WEEK

COMFREY, SYMPHYTUM OFFICINALE

Comfrey is a native perennial plant which grows in damp shady areas. It makes a good ground cover in these situations but it’s difficult to eradicate once it spreads – so only introduce if you’re prepared for it to colonise. The small bell-shaped pink, purple or white flowers are full of nectar so it’s a top choice for insect pollinator friendly gardens. The thick hairy leaves can also be used as a feed in the garden, either applied as a mulch or soaked in water to produce a potassium rich liquid, perfect for your tomatoes.