Comfrey (Symphytum x uplandicum) is one of our most used perennials: chicken fodder, living mulch, garden borders, compost starter, medicine, bee forage and much more.
We grow a variety called "Bocking 14", which is was originally bred in Bocking (Essex, England).
It contains 20-30% protein by dry weight. Grown near a chicken coop, it makes a great nutrient-rich supplement to chicken feed.
A poultice made from the leaves or roots and applied topically is said to promote healing of bruises, sprains, and broken bones.
Honeybees and bumblebees flock to the flowers.
It grows so well that it outcompetes other weeds, making a great border plant for mulched beds. Just make sure you plant it where you want it--because comfrey is persistent once established.