Species

Pulmonaria officinalisCommon Lungwort

21 other cultivars

perennial

Lungwort 'Cotton Cool'

Pulmonaria officinalis 'Cotton Cool'

Same species

Species

Pulmonaria officinalisCommon Lungwort

21 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistently moist, well-drained soil

Humidity

Prefers average to high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Minor toxicity if ingested; contact may cause skin irritation.

The Story

Plant Bio

Pulmonaria officinalis, commonly known as lungwort, is a perennial herb with rosette-forming, lance-shaped leaves that display mottled silver and green patterns, and clusters of tubular flowers in shades of blue and pink in early spring. The 'Cotton Cool' cultivar is distinguished by its particularly soft, silvery foliage and its early, abundant flowering that creates a striking contrast against its foliage.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides early spring color with attractive spotted foliage, ideal for shaded gardens.

Helps suppress weeds and retains soil moisture in shaded areas.

Supports pollinators and attracts beneficial insects.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into moist soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Plant in shaded or partially shaded areas for best growth.
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil stays moist and provide dappled shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist 🌱
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to promote healthy growth
Prune after flowering to maintain shape

Don't

Avoid excessive fertilizing which can promote weak growth ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Avoid full sun exposure which can scorch leaves

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with silvery foliageGroundcover beneath treesVanilla-scented woodland edge

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbe Heuchera Japanese Forest Grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lungwort 'Cotton Cool' questions

What zones can Lungwort 'Cotton Cool' grow in?

Lungwort 'Cotton Cool' is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Lungwort 'Cotton Cool' deer resistant?

Yes — Lungwort 'Cotton Cool' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Lungwort 'Cotton Cool' bloom?

Lungwort 'Cotton Cool' typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Lungwort 'Cotton Cool' need full sun?

Lungwort 'Cotton Cool' does best in part shade.