Lungwort Pulmonaria angustifolia
ABOUT
Pulmonaria angustifolia, commonly known as blue lungwort, is a perennial herbaceous plant prized for its attractive foliage and delicate flowers. The leaves of blue lungwort are quite distinctive; they are mostly basal, with a few smaller ones growing on the flowering stems. The shape of the leaves is lanceolate, resembling the head of a lance, with a pointed tip and narrowing at the base. What makes them particularly striking is their texture and coloration. They are softly hairy and typically feature a unique spotted or mottled pattern, with pale green to white spots on a darker green background. The flowers of blue lungwort are as noteworthy as its leaves. They emerge in clusters on erect stems above the foliage in early spring. Initially, the tubular bell-shaped flowers appear pinkish or reddish but mature to a vivid blue, creating a charming two-toned effect. This color change is due to the pH levels changing in the flower's petals as they age. The blossoms possess the notable ability to attract pollinators such as bees, adding to the plant's charm in any garden setting. Blue lungwort's appearance of foliage and flowers creates a lovely texture and color contrast in shaded garden areas, making it an appealing choice for woodland gardens or as ground cover in temperate climates. Despite the omission of its size, the plant’s ornamental traits allow it to make a significant visual impact.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Boraginaceae
Synonyms
Blue Cowslip, Narrow-leaf Lungwort, Blue Lungwort, Narrow-leaved Lungwort
Common names
Pulmonaria azurea, Pulmonaria latifolia.
ToxicityTo humans
Pulmonaria angustifolia, commonly known as blue lungwort, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning or adverse effects from ingesting this plant. Therefore, accidental consumption of blue lungwort is not expected to cause harm or symptoms of poisoning to humans. Always exercise caution and consult with a medical professional or poison control if any plant is ingested in significant quantities or if any adverse reactions are observed.
To pets
Blue lungwort is not known to be toxic to pets. There are no common reports of illness or symptoms associated with ingestion of this plant by domestic animals such as cats and dogs. As with humans, if a pet consumes parts of the blue lungwort and exhibits any signs of illness, it is best to consult a veterinarian promptly. However, the consumption of non-toxic plants may still lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets due to the ingestion of non-digestible material.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
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 angustifolia, commonly known as lungwort, is an excellent source of nectar and attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
- Shade Tolerant: It thrives in shaded areas, making it an ideal plant for woodland gardens or shaded borders.
- Ground Cover: Its dense foliage helps suppress weeds, making it an effective ground cover.
- Ornamental Value: Lungwort has attractive foliage with spots and splashes of silver, and produces beautiful flowers in shades of blue, pink, or purple in the spring.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, lungwort requires minimal care, making it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Erosion Control: The plant's root system can help to stabilize soil in areas susceptible to erosion.
- Companion Planting: It can be planted alongside other shade-loving perennials, such as ferns and hostas, to create a varied and aesthetically pleasing garden display.
- Wildlife Friendly: By attracting insects, lungwort also supports local wildlife, providing a habitat and food source.
- Seasonal Interest: Lungwort offers visual interest in early spring when many other plants are not yet in bloom.
- Drought Resistant: Once established, it can tolerate periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
Medical Properties- Respiratory Support: Pulmonaria angustifolia, commonly known as Lungwort, has a history of use in traditional medicine for its mucilage content, which was believed to soothe irritated mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.
- Anti-inflammatory Action: The plant contains allantoin, which is known to have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially helping to reduce inflammation in various conditions.
- Astringent Effects: Lungwort has been used traditionally for its astringent properties, which can help to reduce bleeding and promote wound healing.
- Demulcent Properties: The mucilaginous properties of Lungwort make it a demulcent, potentially aiding in the relief of minor pain and inflammation of mucous membranes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pulmonaria angustifolia, commonly known as Lungwort, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, imparting a range of colors from yellow, green to gray depending on the mordant used.
- Lungwort leaves may be added to compost piles as a source of nitrogen and other nutrients to enhance the composting process.
- The hairy leaves of Lungwort can be used as a mild abrasive for cleaning delicate surfaces or items when chemical abrasives are not suitable.
- Lungwort foliage can be used in floral arrangements as filler material adding texture and color contrast among other flowers and plants.
- The plant can act as an indicator species in woodlands, signaling well-established and undisturbed habitats, which could guide conservation practices.
- Lungwort's abundance and early flowering make it useful for supporting early-season pollinators, such as bees, which are on the lookout for their first nectar sources.
- When grown in school gardens, Lungwort serves as an educational tool to teach children about native plant species and the importance of biodiversity.
- In cottage gardens, Lungwort can be used as ground cover to create a charming, rustic aesthetic and prevent soil erosion.
- The plant's unique spotted leaves can be used as inspiration in artistic designs, including textiles, printmaking, and painting.
- Lungwort can act as a companion plant in a garden setting, potentially deterring certain pests with its rough, hairy leaves.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiLungwort is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityLungwort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Medical Symbolism - The genus name Pulmonaria is derived from Latin 'pulmo,' meaning lung. Traditionally, it was used in the doctrine of signatures to treat lung diseases, symbolizing lung health and healing.
- Delicacy - With its soft, hairy leaves and delicate flowers that change color from pink to violet as they age, Lungwort often symbolizes delicacy and subtle beauty in the changing seasons.
- Perseverance in Changing Conditions - Since Lungwort thrives in shady spots and changes flower colors, it can represent the ability to prosper and adapt in varying conditions.
- Modesty - Due to its low-growing nature and the way its flowers are modestly displayed among the foliage, Lungwort embodies the idea of modesty and humility.
WaterLungwort (Pulmonaria angustifolia) prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this would mean watering once or twice a week, depending on the climate and weather conditions. When watering, apply water slowly at the base of the plant until it begins to run through the drainage holes of the pot, or if in the ground, until the soil is saturated. During hot summer days, you may need to water more frequently to maintain moisture, whereas in cooler weather, watering can be reduced. As a general guideline, aim for about 1 gallon of water per week, adjusted for rainfall and temperature conditions.
LightLungwort thrives in locations with partial to full shade, making it an excellent plant for shaded gardens or areas under trees. It can handle some morning sunlight, but should be protected from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch. The ideal spot for lungwort is one where it can receive dappled sunlight or bright, indirect light for much of the day, which closely mimics its natural understory habitat.
TemperatureThe lungwort is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures but grows best within the range of 60°F to 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around -20°F, making it suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8. In areas with very hot summers, lungwort should be protected from extreme heat, as temperatures consistently above 80°F may stress the plant.
PruningPrune lungwort to remove spent flower stalks after blooming and to tidy up any damaged or yellowing leaves. This will encourage the plant to produce fresh foliage and can sometimes stimulate a second, though less vigorous, bloom period. Pruning is usually done in late spring or early summer, immediately after the first bloom period. Occasionally, older plants may benefit from division or more significant cutbacks to revitalize them, which is best done in the spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLungwort flourishes best in a soil mix that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. A good mix can consist of one part garden soil, one part compost or leaf mold, and one part perlite or coarse sand to facilitate drainage. Lungwort prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from about 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingLungwort should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. This plant does not typically require frequent repotting due to its moderate growth rate.
Humidity & MistingLungwort thrives best in moderate to high humidity levels, similar to that of its natural woodland habitat. It prefers humidity levels around 50% or higher but can tolerate lower humidity if not exposed to drafts or heat sources.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright, indirect light, cooler temp, high humidity, and moist, rich soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, moist soil enriched with organic matter.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cyclePulmonaria angustifolia, commonly known as narrow-leaved lungwort, begins its life cycle when seeds are dispersed in late spring to early summer, after the flowering period. These seeds germinate in favorable conditions that include moist, cool environments, often in partially shaded areas. Seedlings emerge and establish into rosette-forming plants, developing a deep root system that can withstand periods of drought. Over the following years, the plant grows and matures, with leaves expanding and becoming spotted or mottled, a characteristic feature of lungwort. Each spring, the plant produces clusters of flowers that transition in color from pink to violet or blue as they age, facilitating cross-pollination typically by bees and other insects. After pollination and seed set, the plant may enter a period of dormancy during hot, dry summers or winter, to re-emerge and continue its cycle the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Pulmonaria angustifolia, commonly known as narrow-leaved lungwort, is typically propagated by division, a popular method that can be performed either in the spring or autumn. To propagate by division, gently lift mature plants from the ground and use a spade or knife to separate the clumps into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system intact. These divisions should then be replanted at the same depth they were originally growing, spaced about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow adequate room for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly to help establish them. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged, to promote healthy root development in the newly planted lungwort divisions.
