Russian Comfrey 'Axminster Gold'

'Axminster Gold' is a striking, ornamental cultivar of Russian Comfrey that brings architectural drama to the herb garden. It is a robust herbaceous perennial known for its large, broadly lance-shaped leaves that feature wide, irregular margins of bright creamy-yellow. Rising above the foliage in late spring and early summer are arching stems carrying clusters of tubular flowers that transition from pinkish-red to blue. Reaching up to 1m in height, it is a significant presence in a herbaceous border. It is incredibly hardy (H7) and will grow in almost any soil condition, though it thrives in moist, fertile ground in sun or partial shade. While the leaves are decorative, the plant also retains the deep-rooted mineral-accumulating properties of comfrey, making it useful for creating nutrient-rich compost teas. Due to its size and vigour, it needs plenty of space. It is less invasive than some other comfreys as it is a sterile hybrid, but it should still be sited carefully.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Most soil types, especially moist ones.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: May, Jun, Jul.