perennial

Pulmonaria Apple Frost

Pulmonaria officinalis 'Apple Frost'

Same species

Species

Pulmonaria officinalisCommon Lungwort

21 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

10 inches

Width

15 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistently moist soil

Humidity

Prefers humid environments

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 with a mottled appearance. The 'Apple Frost' cultivar is distinguished by its silvery, frosted leaves and early spring display of vibrant pink and blue flowers, adding ornamental value and visual interest to shaded garden areas.

Bloom Period:

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

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides early spring color and attractive foliage, enhancing shaded garden areas.
Practical UsesHelps suppress weeds in shaded, moist spots.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators with early nectar sources.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  4. Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
  5. Divide in early spring or fall every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.
  6. Prune back after flowering to promote dense growth.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
  • Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
  • Divide every 3–4 years to prevent overcrowding

Don't

  • Avoid letting soil dry out completely ❌
  • Don't fertilize excessively, as it may cause legginess
  • Refrain from pruning during late fall or winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Mulch
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade garden borderEarly spring woodland understoryMoist shady corner

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbe Heuchera Brunnera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pulmonaria Apple Frost questions

What zones can Pulmonaria Apple Frost grow in?

Pulmonaria Apple Frost 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 Pulmonaria Apple Frost deer resistant?

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

When does Pulmonaria Apple Frost bloom?

Pulmonaria Apple Frost 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 Pulmonaria Apple Frost need full sun?

Pulmonaria Apple Frost does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Pulmonaria Apple Frost 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.