Common comfrey
Warning
Toxic to livestock and humans
About This Species
Herbaceous perennial native to Europe with white or purple flowers, large fuzzy leaves, that grows to a height of 1 m. Common comfrey is a known problem in the Peace River region. It is very difficult to remove due to its tendency to sprout whole plants from small root fragments.
How to Identify
This plant is quite tall with large, pointed oval leaves leaves. It ranges in height from 0.6 to 1 m tall. Flowers are drooping and hang like bluebells. Flowers range in color from white to light purple (and may be striped) and appear in the summer months.
REPORT TO PROTECT BC’S BIODIVERSITY
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Take Action
Prevention is the best approach.
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If you need advice about invasive species on your property or you are concerned about reported invasives in your local area, contact your local government or regional invasive species organization.
Plantwise
Learn about best practices
Prevention is the best approach. If you have an infestation of comfrey in your area, repeated mowing prior to flowering can help minimize the spread of this plant. Herbicides are also an option.
A few non-invasive alternatives to plant instead of Common comfrey include:
- Anise-scented sage (Salvia guarantica)
- Berggarten sage (Salvia officinalis 'Berggarten')
- Common harebell (Campanula rotundifolia)
- Lamb’s ear (Stachys byzantina)
- Lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis)
