Click for previous Image Image 1 of 3 Trachystemon orientalis Black Sea Comfrey

Trachystemon orientalis

Black Sea Comfrey

Plant Type:

SHADE PERENNIALS

Trachystemon orientalis – Large broad and bold dark green tongues of hairy foliage erupt up to 12” long. They spread densely as a ground cover in sun or shade and will smother weeds. Stems up to 18” tall support constellations of blue and white flowers which are like shooting stars in spring; they are reminiscent of Borage to which this interesting plant is a related. We nearly lost an entire patch of Black Sea Comfrey one tough, cold winter with little snow cover; in that, we recommend using mulch for added protection in USDA zone 5. A few small pieces did survive, however, and spread quickly; in fact, by the end of that growing season the patch stretched to an amazing 4’ in diameter! This ground covering perennial's nativity is Bulgaria into Northern Turkey. For gardeners towards the northern end of its range spring planting is advised. Established pot grown division.


Height:

8-12 in

Colors:

Blue

Zone:

(5)6 to 9
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Characteristics and Attributes for Trachystemon orientalis

Season of Interest (Flowering)

  • Spring

Season of Interest (Foliage)

  • Spring / Summer / into Autumn

Nature Attraction

  • Deer Resistant

Light

  • Sun Tolerant
  • Shade Tolerant

Attributes

  • Border
  • Ground Cover

Growth Rate in the Garden

  • Rapid

Soil

  • Fertile
  • Moist

Propagated By

  • Division