When it make out to plant life that front exchangeable to comfrey , there are a few alternative that gardeners may come across . It ’s important to take down that while these plants may have some similarities in show , there are still trenchant difference that can aid distinguish them . Let ’s explore some other plants that resemble comfrey :
1 . Borage ( Borago officinalis ): Borage is a herbaceous plant life that is often confuse with comfrey due to its like hairy leave . However , borage leaf are more elongated and have a rougher grain compared to the suave and large-minded leaves of comfrey . to boot , tailwort flora bring on small , principal - form blue blossom , which are quite different from comfrey ’s campana - determine , pink or purple flowers .
2 . Hound ’s Tongue ( Cynoglossum officinale ): Hound ’s tongue is another plant that can be mistaken for comfrey , especially during the early leg of growth . Its leaves are lance - shaped and track in coarse hairs , resemble untried comfrey leaves . However , hound ’s tongue leaves tend to be narrower and have a more pointed tip compare to comfrey . what is more , hound dog ’s clapper produce modest bunch of blood-red or purple flowers , which differ from comfrey ’s more prominent flowers .
3 . Foxglove ( Digitalis purpurea ): While foxglove leaves may resemble comfrey leave of absence before flowering , the peak are a fundamental distinguishing feature . Foxglove flowers are large , profoundly trump - influence , and come in various shadiness of purple or pink . These discrete flowers are quite different from comfrey ’s Alexander Bell - shaped flowers . It ’s authoritative to mark that digitalis should be handled with caution , as it is toxic if take in .
4 . Green Alkanet ( Pentaglottis sempervirens ): Green alkanet is often false for comfrey due to its haired , rough leaves . However , the leaves of greenish Anchusa officinalis are more lance - form and have prominent vein compare to comfrey . Additionally , green alkanet produce little , mat , and five - petaled blue flowers , which are quite different from comfrey ’s flowers .
5 . Lungwort ( Pulmonaria spp . ): Lungwort is a perennial plant that shares some similarities with comfrey . Both plants have hirsute leave-taking , but lungwort foliage lean to be more stretch with distinct livid or silver markings . Lungwort also produces small , tubular blossom that can depart in gloss , include shade of pink , purple , or blue . These flowers differ from comfrey ’s bell - shaped flowers .
It ’s worth noting that while these plant may have ocular similarities to comfrey , it ’s always important to rely on multiple identifying characteristics , such as leafage shape , flush eccentric , and overall outgrowth habit , to accurately secern between them . If timid , consulting a local gardening expert or using reputable plant designation resource can be helpful .
Caroline Bates
