Pulmonaria  'Spot On'
perennial

Spot On Lungwort

Pulmonaria 'Spot On'

$12.00

The Story

Plant Bio

Pulmonaria, or lungwort, are low-growing, clump-forming perennials for shade gardens, known for their early spring flowers and often silver-spotted foliage. The flowers typically change color as they age.

'Spot On' is a standout cultivar with large, salmon-pink flowers that mature to a rich blue, creating a two-toned effect. Its foliage is exceptional, with long, narrow, dark green leaves heavily overlaid with bright silver spots, providing season-long interest.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesIt is a premier foliage plant for the shade garden, with its silver-spotted leaves providing texture and light from spring through fall. The charming, color-changing flowers are a delightful bonus in early spring.
Practical UsesIt forms a dense, weed-suppressing groundcover in shady areas where other plants might struggle. Its deer and rabbit resistance makes it a reliable choice for gardens with wildlife pressure.
Ecological BenefitsThe very early spring blooms provide a crucial, nectar-rich food source for emerging queen bumblebees and other early pollinators when few other flowers are available.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

14 inches

Width

19 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Cultivar, species native to Europe/Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Late spring

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 3 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a shady spot with moist, humus-rich soil.
  2. Amend soil with compost to improve fertility and moisture retention.
  3. Dig a hole the same depth and width as the pot.
  4. Gently tease the roots and place the plant in the hole.
  5. Backfill with amended soil and water in well.
  6. Mulch to keep the soil consistently moist and cool.

Pro Tip

Cut back the foliage after blooming finishes to encourage a fresh, beautiful flush of new leaves for summer.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry summer weather.
  • Divide clumps every 3-5 years to maintain vigor and create more plants.
  • Clean up old foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
  • Plant in a location with good air circulation.

Don't

  • Do not plant in hot, direct sun, which will scorch the leaves.
  • Do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
  • Avoid overhead watering, as wet foliage can encourage powdery mildew.
  • Do not bury the crown of the plant when planting or mulching.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-splashed shade groundcoverVibrant border edging for woodland pathsEarly spring color for hosta beds

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Spot On Lungwort questions

What zones can Spot On Lungwort grow in?

Spot On Lungwort is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Spot On Lungwort deer resistant?

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

When does Spot On Lungwort bloom?

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

Does Spot On Lungwort need full sun?

Spot On Lungwort does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Spot On 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.