lungwort

Lungwort is the common name for plants in the genus Pulmonaria, a group of perennial flowering plants in the family Boraginaceae. Native to Europe and western Asia, they are commonly grown as ornamentals for their early spring color and shade tolerance.

Lungwort plants form low, clumping rosettes of evergreen leaves that are often mottled with silvery or white markings. Leaves are generally hairy and oval to lanceolate. In spring, the plant bears clusters of small tubular flowers on slender stems. Flower color is variable, with pink buds that open to blue, purple, or white flowers, depending on the species and soil conditions. The display typically lasts several weeks.

In cultivation, lungwort prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade, making it a popular choice for woodland or underplanting in shade gardens. It spreads by rhizomes and self-seeding, and can be propagated by division in early spring or fall. It is hardy in temperate regions, often suitable for USDA zones 3–8. The plant benefits from regular moisture and some protection from hot afternoon sun in warmer climates.

Etymology and traditional use: Pulmonaria derives from Latin pulmonarius, meaning “of the lung,” reflecting the historical belief—part of the Doctrine of Signatures—that the plant could aid lung health. Historically used in European herbal medicine for respiratory ailments, modern use is primarily ornamental, and any medicinal applications are not widely supported by evidence.

Cultivars and notes: Many cultivars feature variegated leaves and a range of flower colors, including blue, pink, and white. Lungwort is typically long-lived with proper moisture and shade, though it can be transient in hot, dry sites; division helps maintain vigor.