Pulmonaria saccharata: A Shade-Loving Plant with Beautiful Flowers and Wildlife Benefits
Introduction
Lungwort (Pulmonaria saccharata) is a perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a member of the borage family (Boraginaceae) and is known for its attractive foliage and flowers.
Physical Characteristics
Lungwort is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 12-18 inches. It has hairy, mid-green leaves that are variegated with silver or white spots. The leaves resemble lungs, which is where the plant gets its name.
Lungwort produces funnel-shaped flowers in shades of blue, violet, pink, purple, red, and white. The flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Growing Conditions
Lungwort is a shade-loving plant that prefers to grow in moist but well-drained soil. It can tolerate full shade, partial shade, or dappled shade. Lungwort is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Planting and Care
Lungwort is easy to grow and can be planted in spring or fall. Choose a planting site that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the lungwort in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the plant deeply after planting.
Lungwort requires minimal care. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize the plant in spring with a balanced fertilizer. Remove old leaves after flowering to promote new growth.
Benefits
Lungwort is a beneficial plant for wildlife. The flowers are a source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators. The leaves provide cover for small animals.
Toxicity
Lungwort is not toxic to humans or pets.
Companion Plants
Lungwort looks great when planted with other shade-loving plants, such as hostas, ferns, and hellebores. It can also be used as a ground cover under trees and shrubs.
Conclusion
Pulmonaria saccharata is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that is perfect for shady gardens. Its attractive foliage and flowers add interest to the landscape, and it is a valuable food source for wildlife.
Additional Information
- Best pulmonarias for foliage: Pulmonaria saccharata ‘Raspberry Splash’, Pulmonaria ‘Majeste’, Pulmonaria ‘David Ward’
- How to grow lungwort in shade: Choose a planting site that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Plant lungwort in moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Lungwort and wildlife: Lungwort is a beneficial plant for wildlife. The flowers are a source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators. The leaves provide cover for small animals.
- Is lungwort poisonous to pets? No, lungwort is not toxic to humans or pets.
- Plants that go well with Pulmonaria saccharata: Hostas, ferns, hellebores, trees, shrubs
