perennial

lungwort

Pulmonaria longifolia

Same species

1 named cultivar

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

Humidity

Prefers humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Western Europe

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Pulmonaria longifolia is a perennial herb renowned for its lance-shaped, often variegated foliage and clusters of small, tubular flowers that bloom in shades of blue, pink, or purple in early spring. This species is particularly valued for its long, narrow leaves that provide attractive ground cover and its early flowering period, which adds early color to shaded garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides attractive spotted foliage and early spring blooms, brightening shaded areas.
Practical UsesPrefers moist soil, making it suitable for rain gardens and shaded borders.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and butterflies during spring.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or divisions into moist soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  3. Plant in partial shade with rich, moist soil.
  4. Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Divide every 3-4 years in early spring for best vigor.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil stays consistently moist for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Mulch to preserve soil moisture
  • Divide in early spring every 3-4 years
  • Plant in partial to full shade

Don't

  • Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
  • Expose to direct hot afternoon sun ❌
  • Overfertilize, which can cause legginess
  • Ignore weeds around the plant

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Mulch
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMoist shady garden corner

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbe Heuchera Japanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

lungwort questions

What zones can lungwort grow in?

lungwort 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 deer resistant?

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

When does lungwort bloom?

lungwort 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 need full sun?

lungwort does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow lungwort with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.