Gardeners can welcome bees and butterflies into their outdoor spaces by planting comfrey, a nectar-rich 'superplant' that wildlife adores. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has identified this wildflower as a top choice for supporting biodiversity.
Comfrey's bell-shaped blooms are ideal for long-tongued and hairy-footed flower bees, while also benefiting nest-building bees, hoverflies and butterflies. The RHS notes that bumblebees may engage in 'nectar robbing', creating holes in flowers to access nectar.
As spring progresses, gardeners might spot black and yellow caterpillars on comfrey, which transform into scarlet tiger moths. The RHS recommends planting comfrey in sun or partial shade, in damp soil, and allowing it to bloom through April before cutting back to stimulate new growth.
Olivia Drake, RHS science and horticulture editor, said: 'Providing an early spring wildlife boost with nectar-rich flowers, comfrey is the RHS Wildlife Wonder April Plant of the Month.' She added that some varieties spread quickly, so gardeners should choose a location where it can flourish or be managed.
