Pulmonaria, more commonly known as Lungwort, is a charming native plant that’s been a staple in herbal medicine since the Middle Ages. These days, though, most of us tuck it into our gardens simply because it looks fantastic.
A Forest Native at Heart
When you’re scouting for the perfect spot for planting lungwort, you really need to keep two things in mind: lighting and soil quality. Think about where you’d find this plant in the wild—it’s a forest dweller. Because of those woodland roots, it’s happiest in full shade or dappled part-shade, right under the canopy of trees. Try to keep it out of the harsh, direct afternoon sun; otherwise, those beautiful leaves will wilt before you know it.
Give It That Rich, Well-Draining Soil
Since Lungwort is used to the forest floor, it craves soil that mimics that environment. We’re talking rich, loamy soil packed with organic matter. It’s a bit of a hungry plant, so it loves a nutrient-dense home. Most importantly, make sure the soil breathes. While Lungwort loves to stay consistently moist, it absolutely hates “wet feet” (standing water). If your garden soil is looking a little thin or sandy, go ahead and mix in a generous amount of mature compost before you get started.
How to Keep Those Blooms Coming
One of the best things about Lungwort is that it’s an early riser, often showing off its first blooms as early as March. Usually, the show lasts through May. If you want to stretch out that flowering season and get the most vibrant colors possible, the environment has to be just right. Keeping the plant cool in the shade and well-fed with nutrients is the secret to a long-lasting display.
To recap, here’s the cheat sheet for finding the perfect home for your Lungwort:
- Stick to shady spots whenever possible.
- Make sure the soil is rich in humus and nutrients.
- Give the ground a boost by mixing in some high-quality compost.
