Lungwort Pulmonaria saccharata 'Leopard'
ABOUT
The common name for Pulmonaria saccharata 'Leopard' is Lungwort 'Leopard'. This plant is known for its striking foliage and beautiful flowers. The leaves are oval-shaped and boast a unique pattern that resembles the spots on a leopard, hence the variety name 'Leopard'. They have a lush green base color that serves as a backdrop to the silvery-white spots and blotches scattered across the surface, giving a mottled appearance. During the flowering season, Lungwort 'Leopard' produces clusters of delicate blooms that transform in color over time. The flowers usually start as pink buds and progressively change to a lovely shade of blue as they mature. This dual-tone effect adds extra interest and creates a charming contrast against the patterned leaves. The soft, hairy texture of both the leaves and stems is also noteworthy, which can give the plant a slightly fuzzy appearance. Lungwort 'Leopard' has a clumping habit, often forming a dense mound of decorative leaves, which remain attractive even when the plant is not in bloom. This foliage makes the plant an excellent choice for adding texture and variegation to a garden setting. Overall, the combination of its patterned leaves and enchanting, color-changing flowers makes Lungwort 'Leopard' a distinctive and appealing addition to shaded garden areas.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Boraginaceae
Synonyms
Bethlehem Sage, Leopard Lungwort, Spotted Dog, Soldiers and Sailors
Common names
Pulmonaria saccharata 'Leopard'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Lungwort is generally not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning or adverse effects from ingesting this plant. However, as with any non-food plant, consumption is not advised and it's always possible for individuals to have allergic reactions or experience stomach upset from ingesting plants that are not typically part of the human diet.
To pets
Lungwort is also not known to be toxic to pets. It is not listed among the plants that are commonly known to cause harm to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals if ingested. While it is still sensible to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants, there are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with Lungwort since it is generally considered non-toxic to animals. As always, if a pet does consume any plant, monitoring for any signs of adverse reaction and consulting with a veterinarian is recommended.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Pulmonaria saccharata 'Leopard', commonly known as lungwort, produces flowers that attract bees and butterflies, contributing to the pollination of your garden.
- Shade Tolerance: Lungwort thrives in shaded areas where other plants might struggle, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens or shady borders.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners looking for low-maintenance plant options.
- Ornamental Foliage: The leaves of lungwort are distinctively spotted and variegated, providing visual interest even when the plant is not in bloom.
- Seasonal Interest: Lungwort has early spring blooms that add color and beauty to the garden at a time when few other plants are flowering.
- Ground Cover: Its ability to spread and form dense clumps makes lungwort an effective ground cover, suppressing weeds and reducing soil erosion.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, lungwort is relatively drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of low rainfall.
- Wildlife Friendly: The plant provides shelter and food for wildlife, creating a more biodiverse and sustainable garden environment.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lungwort 'Leopard' can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of colors depending on the mordant used.
- This plant can act as a bioindicator for air quality due to its sensitivity to air pollutants, specifically sulfur dioxide.
- The leaves of lungwort can be incorporated into a compost pile to enrich the mixture with its nutrients and nitrogen content.
- Being deer-resistant, lungwort can serve to protect more vulnerable plants in a garden setting.
- The fuzzy texture of lungwort leaves can be used in craft projects or to create nature-based art for textural contrast.
- Lungwort's early blooms provide a valuable nectar source for pollinators like bees when not many plants are flowering.
- Ground cover usage of lungwort can assist in soil erosion control by stabilizing the soil with its root system.
- Due to its dappled leaves, lungwort can be used for educational purposes to help teach about the evolution of plant camouflage strategies in the wild.
- As a garden ornamental, lungwort's leaves can be used to create a lush backdrop in floral arrangements or bouquet fillers.
- In a sensorial garden, the varied textures of lungwort's foliage can be appreciated for tactile stimulation.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lungwort is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lungwort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Pulmonaria, commonly known as Lungwort, often symbolizes healing due to its historical use in treating lung diseases. The belief was that its lung-shaped leaves could treat pulmonary ailments.
- Protection: The spotted appearance of the Lungwort's leaves was also thought to symbolize protection against evil spirits and harm, drawing on the Doctrine of Signatures which suggested a plant's appearance indicated its uses.
- Perseverance: Lungwort is an early bloomer that can thrive in shady, damp conditions. Its ability to prosper despite a seemingly adverse environment makes it a symbol of perseverance and resilience.
WaterThe lungwort plant, known commonly as Pulmonaria saccharata 'Leopard', ideally requires consistent moisture, particularly in warmer and dryer climates. Water this plant deeply once or twice a week, making sure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. It is best to apply about one gallon of water per plant for each watering session to ensure the roots are sufficiently hydrated. During the growing season in spring and fall, the lungwort may need more frequent watering, while in winter, water less often as the plant’s water requirements decrease.
LightThe lungwort, or Pulmonaria saccharata 'Leopard', thrives best in partial to full shade. The ideal spot for this plant is under the canopy of larger trees or shrubs where it can receive filtered sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn, so it’s vital to avoid placing it in areas where the afternoon sun is strongest.
TemperaturePulmonaria saccharata 'Leopard', commonly known as lungwort, can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers conditions between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The lungwort can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit but needs protection from harsh frosts. In general, lungwort favors cool to moderate climates and may struggle in areas with extreme heat.
PruningPruning lungwort, or Pulmonaria saccharata 'Leopard', is necessary to remove any spent flowers and to promote new growth. The best time to prune is after the plant has finished blooming in late spring or early summer. Cut back the flower stalks to the base and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. This will help to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage a second flush of foliage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLungwort thrives in well-draining, rich, moist soil with a pH ranging from neutral to slightly acidic. A mix containing garden soil, compost, perlite or vermiculite, and peat is ideal.
RepottingLungwort should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it becomes root-bound to refresh the soil and provide room for growth.
Humidity & MistingLungwort prefers moderate to high humidity, but it adapts to average household levels if the soil moisture is maintained.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Lungwort in moist soil, with indirect light, and moderate humidity.
Outdoor
Plant Lungwort in partial shade, moist soil, and shelter from wind.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Pulmonaria saccharata 'Leopard', commonly known as Bethlehem sage, begins with seed germination, usually in the spring, when the soil temperature increases and moisture is abundant. Following germination, seedlings emerge and develop a rosette of basal leaves which are spotted or speckled, giving the 'Leopard' nickname. Throughout the growing season, the plant grows and matures, producing hairy leaves and establishing a strong root system. In early to mid-spring of the following year, the plant sends up flowering stalks with clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers that are usually pink or blue, attracting pollinators. After flowering, seeds are produced and dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. Bethlehem sage then enters a period of dormancy during the winter, with the leaves often dying back to the ground, and re-emerges the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The Pulmonaria saccharata 'Leopard', also commonly known as Lungwort 'Leopard', can be propagated most effectively through division in the spring. To do this, dig up an established clump after the flowers have faded but while the plant is still in its active growth phase. Carefully pull apart the crowns, ensuring each section has a portion of the root system intact. Replant the divisions immediately into moist, well-drained soil, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish the root systems. This method of division helps maintain the vigor of the lungwort and is an ideal way to produce new plants that are true to the parent's characteristics.
