Polmonari

Polmonari is the Italian name for plants in the genus Pulmonaria, commonly known in English as lungwort. Belonging to the family Boraginaceae, Pulmonaria species are native to Europe and western Asia and are widely grown as ornamental perennials in shade gardens and woodland settings.

Pulmonaria species are small, herbaceous perennials with attractive evergreen to semi-evergreen leaves, often marked with silver or white spots. In early spring they produce dense racemes of tubular flowers. The blossoms typically appear in pink or red buds that mature to blue, violet, or purplish hues, and many cultivars display variegated foliage. Flowers are valued by pollinators, especially bees, for early-season nectar.

Cultivation and care: Pulmonaria prefers partial to full shade and moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. It is suited to woodland margins and rock gardens with adequate moisture. The plants spread slowly by rhizomes and seeds, and can become clump-forming or slightly invasive in ideal conditions. They benefit from mulch, regular moisture, and protection from hot, dry conditions. Deadheading can prolong display, and leaves provide seasonal texture even after flowering.

Uses and range: Pulmonaria officinalis is the best-known species and serves as a common ornamental in temperate gardens. The genus includes several other species and numerous cultivars with a range of foliage patterns and flower colors. The name Pulmonaria reflects a historical association with lungs, stemming from leaf markings and traditional herbal uses, though modern medical use is not supported by evidence.