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Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria 'Spot On' PP33063 (30)ct Flat

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Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria 'Pink-a-Blue' PPAF (30)ct Flat

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Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria 'Twinkle Toes' PPAF (30)ct Flat

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Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria 'Spot On' PP33063 (30)ct Flat

Pulmonaria 'Spot On' PP33063 CPBRAF - Proven Winners® (30)ct Flat Common Name: Lungwort'Spot On' is a new Pulmonaria for Proven Winners and a new genus to the perennial lineup. Pulmonaria are the...

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Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria 'Pink-a-Blue' PPAF (30)ct Flat

Pulmonaria 'Pink-a-Blue' PPAF CPBRAF- Proven Winners® (30)ct Flat Common Name: LungwortPink flower buds open to medium blue flowers in early spring. Buds and blooms appear at the same time for an...

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Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria 'Twinkle Toes' PPAF (30)ct Flat

Pulmonaria 'Twinkle Toes' PPAF Common Name: Lungwort, Bethlehem Sage. Starting in mid-spring shortly after Hellebores are finished booming, dainty light periwinkle blue flowers cover a low, mounded...

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What are the characteristics of Pulmonaria?

Pulmonaria, commonly known as lungworts, are perennial flowering plants belonging to the borage family (Boraginaceae). Here are some of their characteristics:

Habit: They are herbaceous perennials, meaning they die back to the ground in winter but regrow from their roots in spring. They form clumps or rosettes of leaves.
Leaves: Their leaves are arranged in rosettes at the base of the plant. The leaves are typically oval-shaped and covered in hairs of varying lengths and stiffness. They are often mottled with silver or sometimes entirely silver, providing attractive ground cover until they die down in late autumn.
Flowers: Pulmonaria are known for their beautiful flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring. The flowers are borne on short stalks that rise above the foliage. They are typically pink, violet, or blue, and some varieties even change color as they age. The flowers are trumpet-shaped or funnel-shaped with five lobes.
Size: Pulmonaria plants typically grow to be 15-25 cm (6-10 inches) tall and spread up to 60 cm (2 feet) wide. However, there are some exceptions, with some varieties reaching up to 30 cm (12 inches) tall.
Growing conditions: Pulmonaria prefer cool, moist, but well-drained soil in part shade to full shade. They are not tolerant of drought or hot, dry locations. They are also relatively low-maintenance plants and are easy to grow.

Here are some additional interesting facts about Pulmonaria:

The name "lungwort" comes from the old belief that the leaves of these plants were beneficial for lung health. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Pulmonaria are attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

There are over 100 species of Pulmonaria, with a wide variety of flower colors and leaf markings.

How do I plant Pulmonaria?

Here's a guide on how to plant Pulmonaria:

When to Plant:

The best time to plant lungwort is generally in late summer or early fall. This allows the plants to establish their root systems before winter. However, spring planting can also be successful, though fall planting is preferred.

Choosing a Location:

Light: Pulmonaria prefer partial shade to full shade. They can tolerate some morning sun, but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in hot climates.
Soil: They thrive in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. If your soil is lacking in organic matter, amend it with compost, aged manure, or peat moss before planting. Poorly drained soil can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.

Planting Steps:

Dig a hole: Make a hole about twice the width and depth of the plant's root ball.
Loosen the roots: If planting from a container, gently loosen the roots around the edges of the root ball to encourage outward growth.
Position the plant: Place the lungwort in the hole, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stems) sits slightly above the soil level.
Backfill and tamp: Fill the hole with soil, gently tamping it down to remove air pockets.
Water thoroughly: Water the plant deeply to settle the soil around the roots.

Aftercare:

Watering: Water your lungwort regularly, especially during dry periods, to maintain consistent moisture in the soil. However, avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing: Lungworts are not heavy feeders. A light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can be beneficial, but it's not essential.
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

With proper care, your lungworts should establish themselves well and reward you with beautiful blooms in late winter or early spring for many years to come.

What are varieties of Pulmonaria?

There are over 100 species of Pulmonaria, with a wide variety of flower colors and leaf markings. Here are some popular varieties:

Pulmonaria 'Majesté': This variety has silver-leaved foliage with pink flowers that turn blue, blooming from late winter to early spring. It prefers shade but will tolerate sun provided there is adequate moisture.
Pulmonaria 'David's Lavender': This variety boasts beautiful lavender-blue flowers with dark green, unblemished leaves. It blooms in early spring and reaches a mature height of 12-18 inches.
Pulmonaria 'Pink Dawn': This variety features stunning pinkish-red flowers that mature to a soft violet-blue. The leaves are green with silver speckles. It blooms in early spring and grows to be about 12 inches tall.
Pulmonaria 'Sissinghurst White': This variety is known for its pure white flowers and heavily spotted green leaves, providing a striking contrast. It blooms in mid to late spring and grows up to 18 inches tall.
Pulmonaria 'Blue Ensign': This variety is appreciated for its rich, true-blue flowers and plain green leaves without spots. It blooms in early spring and reaches a height of 12-18 inches.
Pulmonaria 'Moonshine': This variety is prized for its almost entirely silver leaves, which provide a beautiful backdrop to its light blue flowers. It blooms in early spring and grows up to 1 foot tall.

Pulmonaria 'Cotton Cool': The silver-spotted foliage of 'Cotton Cool' looks great all season, and its pink to blue-violet flowers are a beautiful addition to the spring garden. It blooms in early spring and matures to a height of 12-18 inches.

How Do I Care For a Pulmonaria?

Here's a breakdown of how to care for your Pulmonaria:

Light:

Pulmonaria prefer partial shade to full shade. They can tolerate some morning sun, but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in hot climates. Strong afternoon sun can scorch the leaves.

Watering:

Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season. Water deeply and thoroughly, allowing the water to reach the roots. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
During dry periods, especially in hot climates, you may need to water more frequently.
Once established, lungworts are somewhat drought tolerant but will look their best with consistent moisture.

Soil:

Pulmonaria thrive in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
If your soil is lacking in organic matter, amend it with compost, aged manure, or peat moss before planting.
Poor drainage is a major concern, so ensure the planting site allows for excess water to drain away freely.

Fertilizing:

Lungworts are not heavy feeders. A light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can be beneficial, but it's not essential.
Overfertilizing can encourage excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

Mulching:

Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help with several things:
- Retains moisture in the soil, reducing watering frequency.
- Suppresses weeds that compete with your lungwort for water and nutrients.
- Regulates soil temperature, keeping the roots cool in summer and warm in winter.

Pruning:

Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance.
You can also prune off dead or damaged leaves throughout the growing season.
Some gardeners choose to shear off the tops of the plants in hot, dry weather if the leaves become scorched or wilt. The plants will typically bounce back with fresh growth when cooler temperatures return.

Propagation:

The easiest way to propagate lungwort is by division in the fall or right after flowering in the spring. Dig up the clump and carefully divide it into sections, each with healthy roots and crowns. Replant the divisions and care for them as you would newly planted lungworts.

Pests and Diseases:

Lungworts are generally pest and disease resistant. However, they can be susceptible to problems like powdery mildew and slugs in overly moist conditions.
Practicing good watering habits and maintaining good air circulation around the plants can help prevent these issues.

By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Pulmonaria thrives in your garden for many years to come, providing beautiful blooms and attractive foliage throughout the season.

Does Pulmonaria attract pollinators?

Pulmonaria absolutely attracts pollinators! They are considered a valuable addition to pollinator gardens for several reasons:

Early source of nectar: Lungworts bloom in late winter or early spring, which is a time when there are few other flowering plants around. This provides a crucial source of nectar for pollinators emerging from hibernation, such as bumblebees.
Attractive to a variety of pollinators: The trumpet or funnel-shaped flowers of Pulmonaria come in shades of pink, violet, blue, and even white. These colors and the flower shape are attractive to a wide range of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds.
Long blooming period: While the initial flowering flush may only last a few weeks, some varieties of Pulmonaria can continue to produce sporadic blooms throughout the spring. This extended bloom time provides a continuous source of food for pollinators.

Here are some additional details about how Pulmonaria attracts pollinators:

Nectar: The flowers of Pulmonaria produce a sweet nectar that is a valuable food source for pollinators. The nectar is hidden deep within the flower's tubular shape, making it accessible only to pollinators with long tongues, such as bumblebees and hummingbirds.
Pollen: Lungworts also produce pollen, which is another important food source for pollinators, especially bees.
Color and Fragrance: The bright colors and subtle sweet fragrance of the flowers help to attract pollinators from a distance.

Overall, Pulmonaria is a great choice for gardeners who want to create a beautiful and pollinator-friendly garden.

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Pulmonaria?

Pulmonaria are fortunately considered to be relatively pest and disease resistant compared to other garden plants. However, there are a couple of issues to watch out for, especially in conditions that favor moisture:

Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can develop on the foliage if the plants are grown in wet, humid conditions with poor air circulation. It appears as white or grayish powdery spots on the leaves.
Slugs: These slimy mollusks can feed on the leaves and flowers of Pulmonaria, particularly in damp environments. You'll see signs of slug damage as irregular shaped holes munched out of the leaves.

Here are some ways to prevent these issues:

Watering: Avoid overwatering your lungworts. Water deeply and allow the soil to dry somewhat between waterings.
Spacing: Plant your lungworts with enough space between them to allow for good air circulation.
Sunlight: Provide partial shade, avoiding full shade whenever possible.
Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants, but avoid letting it touch the stems, as this can create a moist microclimate favorable for fungal diseases.

If you do notice powdery mildew, you can try removing the affected leaves or using a fungicide specifically labeled for use on lungworts. For slugs, there are various control methods available, such as handpicking them off the plants at night, using traps, or applying organic slug control products.

By following these preventative measures, you can help keep your Pulmonaria healthy and looking their best.

Can I Use Pulmonaria in Floral Arrangements?

Yes, you can absolutely use Pulmonaria in floral arrangements! Here's why they can be a great addition:

Unique and interesting blooms: The trumpet or funnel-shaped flowers of Pulmonaria come in shades of pink, violet, blue, and even white. These colors and the flower shape can add a unique touch to your arrangements.
Long-lasting blooms: Although the initial flowering flush may only last a few weeks, cut Pulmonaria flowers can last in a vase for up to a week with proper care.
Textural interest: The foliage of Pulmonaria with its interesting patterns and silver speckles can add textural variety to your arrangements.

Here are some things to consider when using Pulmonaria in floral arrangements:

Variety selection: There are many varieties of Pulmonaria to choose from, each with different flower colors and foliage characteristics. Consider the overall style and color scheme of your arrangement when selecting a variety.
Cutting: The best time to cut Pulmonaria flowers for arrangements is when they are just beginning to open. Use sharp shears to cut the stems at an angle.
Hydration: Give the cut stems a fresh cut before placing them in a vase filled with clean, cool water. Like most cut flowers, Pulmonaria will benefit from having a floral preservative added to the water. This will help to extend the vase life of the flowers.
Placement: Due to the delicate nature of the flowers, Pulmonaria might be best suited for smaller, more intimate arrangements. They can also be a beautiful filler flower in larger bouquets.

Overall, Pulmonaria can be a lovely addition to floral arrangements, offering unique blooms, interesting textural elements, and extended vase life with proper care.

Is Pulmonaria Invasive?

No, Pulmonaria are not invasive plants. While they will spread slowly through creeping roots, they are not aggressive and are unlikely to take over your garden. In fact, they are often considered well-behaved perennials.

Here's why Pulmonaria are not invasive:

Slow spread: They spread gradually by rhizomes, which are underground stems that grow outwards from the main plant. This slow spread allows for controlled growth and prevents them from overwhelming other plants.
Clump-forming: Pulmonaria tend to form clumps rather than sprawling uncontrollably. This makes them predictable in their growth pattern and easier to manage in the garden.
Not competitive: They are not particularly competitive with other plants and can coexist peacefully in a garden setting.

In contrast, invasive plants spread rapidly and aggressively, often choking out native vegetation and disrupting ecosystems. Pulmonaria, with their slow and controlled growth, pose no such threat.

Here are some additional points to consider:

Local regulations: While Pulmonaria are generally not invasive, it's always a good idea to check with your local authorities to see if there are any restrictions on planting them in your area.
Right plant, right place: Planting Pulmonaria in a suitable location, such as a shaded area with moist, well-drained soil, will help to ensure they remain well-behaved and don't become a nuisance.

Overall, you can enjoy the beauty of Pulmonaria in your garden without worrying about them becoming invasive.

When Is The Best Time To propagate Pulmonaria?

The best time to propagate Pulmonaria is generally in the fall, specifically in late summer or early fall. Here's why:

Favorable conditions: Fall provides cool soil temperatures and moist conditions, which are ideal for the development of new roots on the divisions. This allows the propagated plants to establish themselves well before winter and return with strong growth in the spring.
After flowering: Pulmonaria can also be propagated in the spring, just after flowering is finished. However, fall propagation is generally preferred because it gives the new plants more time to establish themselves before winter.

Here's a quick comparison of fall vs spring propagation for Pulmonaria:

Factor	Fall Propagation	Spring Propagation
Timing	Late summer/Early fall	Right after flowering
Root development	More favorable due to cool, moist soil	Less ideal due to warmer temperatures
Plant establishment	More time for establishment before winter	Less time for establishment before hot summer
Overall Success Rate	Generally higher	Lower

So, if you're looking for the best chance of success when propagating Pulmonaria, fall is the way to go.

What are the benefits of planting Pulmonaria?

Pulmonaria offers a variety of benefits for your garden, both aesthetic and ecological. Here's a breakdown of the key advantages:

Beauty and Interest:

Unique blooms: Pulmonaria boasts trumpet or funnel-shaped flowers in shades of pink, violet, blue, and white, adding a touch of elegance and variety to your garden in late winter or early spring, when few other plants are blooming.
Textural contrast: The foliage comes with interesting patterns and speckles, often in shades of green and silver, providing textural interest throughout the season, even after the flowers fade.
Long bloom time: While the initial flowering may only last a few weeks, some varieties can produce sporadic blooms throughout spring, extending the visual appeal.

Low Maintenance:

Easy to grow: Pulmonaria are generally considered low-maintenance plants. They thrive in cool, moist, shaded locations and don't require constant attention.
Pest and disease resistant: Compared to other plants, they are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for frequent applications of pesticides or fungicides.
Drought tolerant (once established): While they prefer consistent moisture, established lungworts can handle drier periods fairly well.

Wildlife and Pollinators:

Attracts pollinators: The early blooms and nectar-rich flowers of Pulmonaria are a valuable food source for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, especially in the early spring when other options are scarce.
Habitat for beneficial insects: Their clump-forming growth habit creates a habitat for beneficial insects like beetles and spiders that can help control pest populations in your garden.

Additional Benefits:

Non-invasive: Pulmonaria are not aggressive spreaders and are unlikely to take over your garden. They spread slowly through underground stems, allowing for controlled growth.
Long lifespan: With proper care, Pulmonaria can thrive in your garden for many years, rewarding you with beautiful blooms season after season.

Overall, Pulmonaria offers a combination of aesthetic appeal, low maintenance requirements, and ecological benefits, making them a valuable addition to shade gardens.

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Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria 'Spot On' PP33063 (30)ct Flat

Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria 'Pink-a-Blue' PPAF (30)ct Flat

Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria 'Twinkle Toes' PPAF (30)ct Flat

Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria 'Spot On' PP33063 (30)ct Flat

Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria 'Pink-a-Blue' PPAF (30)ct Flat

Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria 'Twinkle Toes' PPAF (30)ct Flat

What are the characteristics of Pulmonaria?

How do I plant Pulmonaria?

What are varieties of Pulmonaria?

How Do I Care For a Pulmonaria?

Does Pulmonaria attract pollinators?

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Pulmonaria?

Can I Use Pulmonaria in Floral Arrangements?

Is Pulmonaria Invasive?

When Is The Best Time To propagate Pulmonaria?

What are the benefits of planting Pulmonaria?