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By providing the right conditions, Pulmonaria will reward you with early spring beauty and attractive foliage for much of the growing season.
Pulmonaria (pull-mon-nay-ree-uh) Lungwort; Boraginaceae Family. Pulmonaria are European perennials with spotted, hairy leaves, and pretty, funnel-shaped flowers in clusters. They are easily grown with ordinary soil in shade or partial shade, with ample moisture. Plants may need dividing every 3 or 4 years for best bloom.
Pulmonarias are easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil, but prefer cool soils that are highly organic and moisture retentive. While dry conditions can lead to powdery mildew and leaf scorch, Lungwort is intolerant of wet, poorly drained soils. Prune to ground level for a fresh foliage growth. Best time to divide clumps is in the fall.
Attributes: Border plants, Container, Cut flower, Edging, Mass Planting. Attracts hummingbirds. Deer and rabbit resistant.
Illuminating Shade Gardens with Dazzling Foliage and Early Blooms
Welcome to the enchanting world of Pulmonaria, commonly known as Lungwort. If you are seeking a resilient, shade-loving perennial that offers multi-season interest, look no further. Pulmonaria is a treasure for gardeners in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 9, brightening woodland settings, shade borders, and container plantings with its unique, often spotted or silvered foliage and charming clusters of early spring flowers. These adaptable plants provide texture, color, and life to those sometimes challenging shady spots in the landscape.
Understanding Pulmonaria: Morphology and Habit
To fully appreciate Pulmonaria, let us delve into its distinct characteristics:
Cultivating Thriving Pulmonaria: Soil, Light, and Water
Native to woodlands and moist meadows across Europe and western Asia, Pulmonaria have adapted to specific conditions. Replicating these in your garden ensures success:
Maintenance: Simple Care for Lasting Beauty
Pulmonaria are relatively low-maintenance plants, but a few practices will keep them looking their best:
Landscaping with Pulmonaria: Design Techniques and Companions
Pulmonaria's unique qualities make it versatile in shade garden design:
Tips for Pulmonaria Success:
Embrace the Shade with Pulmonaria
Pulmonaria offers a remarkable combination of resilience, unique beauty, and multi-season interest for shade gardens. From the first cheerful blooms of spring to the captivating foliage that persists through fall, these plants bring light and texture to shaded corners. Easy to grow and relatively low-maintenance, Lungworts reward gardeners across a wide range of climates (zones 3-9) with their enduring charm. Explore the diverse varieties available and discover how Pulmonaria can transform your shade garden into a captivating oasis.
Pulmonaria, commonly known as lungwort, is a genus of flowering plants prized for their early spring blooms and attractive foliage. Here is a look at its taxonomy:
Species:
The exact number of Pulmonaria species is debated, with estimates ranging from 10 to 18. This is because species delineation can be challenging due to hybridization and variation within populations.
Some of the more recognized species include:
Placement within Boraginaceae:
Within the Boraginaceae family, Pulmonaria is placed in the subfamily Boraginoideae and the tribe Boragineae. This indicates its close relationship to other well-known members of the borage family, such as borage (Borago officinalis) and forget-me-nots (Myosotis species).
Pulmonaria, or lungwort, has a distinct appearance with several key morphological features:
Roots:
Leaves:
Flowers:
Stems:
Overall Growth Habit: Pulmonaria species are typically clump-forming perennials that spread slowly via their rhizomes. They create a dense groundcover in shaded areas.
Adaptations:
Pulmonaria, with its charming spotted foliage and early spring flowers, is a delightful addition to shade gardens. Here is a guide to cultivating these lovely plants:
Growing Conditions:
Pulmonaria thrive in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. They prefer partial shade to full shade, where they receive dappled sunlight or morning sun and afternoon shade. While they can tolerate deeper shade, they may not flower as profusely.
Pulmonarias are relatively drought-tolerant once established, but they perform best with consistent moisture. Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogged conditions.
The ideal soil pH for Pulmonaria is slightly acidic to neutral. Adding compost or leaf mold to the soil can help improve drainage and fertility.
Most Pulmonaria species are hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Planting:
Care:
Propagation:
Tips:
With proper care, your Pulmonaria plants will reward you with their beautiful foliage and early spring blooms for many years to come.
Spring:
Summer:
Fall:
Winter:
Additional Notes:
By following this calendar and providing consistent care, you can ensure that your Pulmonaria plants thrive and bring beauty to your garden year after year.
Pulmonaria has a dedicated following among gardeners, and with good reason. The variety in leaf patterns and flower colors is truly remarkable. Here is a breakdown of the species, groups, and cultivars:
Species (commonly cultivated):
Groups:
While not formal taxonomic groups, Pulmonaria are sometimes loosely categorized by characteristics:
Varieties and Cultivars (a small selection of the many available):
Things to Consider When Choosing:
With so many beautiful Pulmonaria cultivars available, you are sure to find some that perfectly suit your garden!
Pulmonaria's tapestry of colorful foliage and early blooms makes it fantastic for mass planting, especially in shady areas where other plants struggle. Here is how to use it effectively:
Choosing the Right Cultivars:
Pulmonaria offers a wide range of cultivars, each with its own unique characteristics. For a mass planting, careful cultivar selection is key. Consider the following factors:
By carefully considering these factors, you can create a stunning and harmonious mass planting of Pulmonaria.
Planting and Spacing:
Density: Space plants closer together than you would for individual specimens, about 10-12 inches apart. This creates a denser, more impactful groundcover that will quickly fill in and suppress weeds, reducing the need for constant weeding and maintenance. Additionally, the closer spacing will create a more cohesive and visually striking mass planting.
Site Selection:
Care for Mass Plantings:
Design Ideas:
With careful planning and proper care, a mass planting of Pulmonaria can transform a shady area into a vibrant and captivating tapestry of color and texture.
Pulmonaria, commonly known as lungworts, are perennial flowering plants belonging to the borage family (Boraginaceae). Here are some of their characteristics:
Here are some additional interesting facts about Pulmonaria:
There are over 100 species of Pulmonaria, with a wide variety of flower colors and leaf markings.
Here is 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:
Planting Steps:
Aftercare:
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.
There are over 100 species of Pulmonaria, with a wide variety of flower colors and leaf markings. Here are some popular varieties:
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.
Lungwort flowers are known for their unique characteristics, particularly their color-changing blooms and attractive foliage. Here is a rundown of their key features:
Flower Characteristics:
Fragrance:
Foliage:
Overall:
Lungwort is a charming and relatively low-maintenance plant that adds beauty and interest to shady gardens. Its unique color-changing flowers, attractive foliage, and subtle fragrance make it a favorite among gardeners.
Pulmonaria are generally quite hardy plants, tolerating a wide range of temperatures. Most species thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 8. This means they can withstand minimum winter temperatures ranging from -40°F (-40°C) in Zone 3 to 10°F (-12°C) in Zone 8.
However, there can be some slight variations depending on the specific species or cultivar:
What do Hardiness Zones mean?
Hardiness Zones are based on the average annual minimum winter temperature a region experiences. They help gardeners determine which plants are likely to survive and thrive in their local climate.
To find your specific Hardiness Zone:
Knowing your Hardiness Zone is crucial for selecting plants that will thrive in your garden.
With their wide hardiness range, Pulmonaria species are excellent choices for many gardeners, bringing beautiful foliage and flowers to their shady spaces.
Lungwort (Pulmonaria) is a bit of a Goldilocks plant when it comes to lifespan - not too long, not too short, but just right... with a little help!
Here is the breakdown:
Why divide?
Over time, the center of a lungwort clump can become congested and woody, reducing its vigor. Division breaks up the clump, giving the individual plants more space and resources to grow.
When to divide?
By dividing your lungwort plants regularly, you can enjoy their beautiful blooms and attractive foliage for many years to come.
Here is a breakdown of how to care for your Pulmonaria:
Light:
Watering:
Soil:
Fertilizing:
Mulching:
Pruning:
Propagation:
Pests and Diseases:
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.
Mass planting Pulmonaria (Lungwort) can create a stunning visual impact in your shade garden. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Woodland Wonder:
Border Bonanza:
Island Oasis:
Slope Solution:
Tips for Mass Planting Pulmonaria:
By implementing these ideas and tips, you can create a breathtaking display of Pulmonaria in your garden that will be the envy of the neighborhood!
Pulmonaria can indeed be a fantastic groundcover for shady areas! Here is why it works so well and how to use it effectively:
Benefits of Pulmonaria as Groundcover:
Tips for Using Pulmonaria as Groundcover:
Best Pulmonaria Species for Groundcover:
Companion Plants:
By considering these tips and choosing the right Pulmonaria species, you can create a beautiful and low-maintenance groundcover that will thrive in your shady garden.
Pulmonaria absolutely attracts pollinators! They are considered a valuable addition to pollinator gardens for several reasons:
Here are some additional details about how Pulmonaria attracts pollinators:
Overall, Pulmonaria is a great choice for gardeners who want to create a beautiful and pollinator-friendly garden.
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:
Here are some ways to prevent these issues:
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 its best.
Leaves and stems of Pulmonaria are a big part of what makes these plants so appealing! Here is a closer look:
Leaves:
Stems:
Why the Variation?
The different leaf and stem characteristics help distinguish between Pulmonaria species and cultivars. This variety also allows gardeners to choose plants that best suit their aesthetic preferences and garden conditions.
Beyond Looks:
So, when admiring Pulmonaria, do not just focus on the flowers. The leaves and stems contribute significantly to the plant's overall beauty and its ability to thrive in shady gardens.
Yes, you can absolutely use Pulmonaria in floral arrangements! Here is why they can be a great addition:
Here are some things to consider when using Pulmonaria in floral arrangements:
Overall, Pulmonaria can be a lovely addition to floral arrangements, offering unique blooms, interesting textural elements, and extended vase life with proper care.
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:
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:
Overall, you can enjoy the beauty of Pulmonaria in your garden without worrying about it becoming invasive.
The best time to propagate Pulmonaria is generally in the fall, specifically in late summer or early fall. Here is why:
Here is 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 are looking for the best chance of success when propagating Pulmonaria, fall is the way to go.
Pulmonaria offers a variety of benefits for your garden, both aesthetic and ecological. Here is a breakdown of the key advantages:
Beauty and Interest:
Low Maintenance:
Wildlife and Pollinators:
Additional Benefits:
Overall, Pulmonaria offers a combination of aesthetic appeal, low maintenance requirements, and ecological benefits, making them a valuable addition to shade gardens.
Pulmonaria got its name from a fascinating blend of observation and ancient beliefs:
So, because the leaves looked like lungs, people believed Pulmonaria could be used to treat lung ailments. While modern medicine does not support this, the name stuck!
It is interesting how historical beliefs and observations shaped the way we name and understand plants, even today.
Pulmonaria longifolia, also known as Narrow-leaved Lungwort! It is a lovely species with some distinct characteristics that set it apart from other Pulmonaria varieties. Here is a rundown of its key features:
Leaves:
Flowers:
Growth Habit:
Cultivation:
Notable Cultivars:
If you are looking for a Lungwort with a bolder leaf texture and striking silver markings, Pulmonaria longifolia and its cultivars are excellent choices for your shade garden.
Pulmonaria officinalis is the species that really gave the whole genus its name and reputation! It is often called Common Lungwort or Jerusalem Cowslip, and has a rich history intertwined with herbalism and folklore. Here is what makes it special:
Appearance:
Historical Uses:
Growing Conditions:
Interesting Facts:
If you are looking for a Lungwort with historical significance and those classic spotted leaves, Pulmonaria officinalis is a wonderful choice for your garden. It is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that adds a touch of charm to any shady spot.
Pulmonaria saccharata, also known as Bethlehem Sage or Bethlehem Lungwort, is a popular species prized for its exceptionally beautiful foliage. It is a real showstopper in the shade garden! Here is what you need to know:
Leaves:
Flowers:
Growth Habit:
Cultivation:
Popular Cultivars:
If you are looking for a Lungwort with stunning foliage that will brighten up shady areas, Pulmonaria saccharata and its cultivars are excellent choices. They are relatively low-maintenance plants that provide long-lasting beauty in the garden.