perennial

Roy Davidson Lungwort

Pulmonaria officinalis 'Roy Davidson'

Same species

Species

Pulmonaria officinalisCommon Lungwort

21 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

20 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist soil

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and western Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Pulmonaria officinalis, commonly known as lungwort, is a perennial herbaceous plant with lance-shaped, spotted foliage and clusters of bell-shaped flowers that range from blue to pink, often blooming in early spring. Distinguished by its long, dark green leaves heavily spotted with silver. Flowers open pink and mature to a vibrant sky blue.

Bloom Period:

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

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides early spring color and lush foliage, enhancing shaded garden areas.
Practical UsesHelps suppress weeds in shaded, moist soils.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts pollinators and provides habitat for beneficial insects.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds just below soil surface in early fall or spring.
  2. Keep soil consistently moist during active growth.
  3. Place in partial shade for optimal blooming.
  4. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Divide in early spring every 3-4 years for vigor.
  6. Water regularly during dry spells.

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded areas with rich, moist soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently, especially during dry periods 🌱
  • Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
  • Divide every 3-4 years to maintain health
  • Remove dead or damaged foliage

Don't

  • Avoid full sun exposure which can scorch leaves ❌
  • Don’t let soil dry out completely
  • Refrain from over-fertilizing, which can reduce flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Pest Check
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMoist, shady garden bedEarly spring flower border

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Bleeding Heart Heucheras

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Roy Davidson Lungwort questions

What zones can Roy Davidson Lungwort grow in?

Roy Davidson 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 Roy Davidson Lungwort deer resistant?

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

When does Roy Davidson Lungwort bloom?

Roy Davidson 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 Roy Davidson Lungwort need full sun?

Roy Davidson Lungwort does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Roy Davidson 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.