Pulmonaria | Heijnen Plants

Filters

40cm

Pulmonaria saccharata 'Mrs. Moon' Bethlehem lungwort

5-10cm

Added to shopping cart

3^95From

30cm

Pulmonaria angustifolia 'Blue Ensign' Narrow-leaved lungwort

5-10cm

Added to shopping cart

4^50From

products found, click here to view them

Buy pulmonaria (pasque flower)

Pulmonaria is a delightful plant known for its distinct hairy, speckled leaves and striking funnel-shaped flowers. These blooms, appearing in shades of pink, purple, or blue, change colour after pollination, adding interest from March to May. Ideal for shady borders, a woodland garden, or underplanting, this spring flowering shade plant thrives in areas with less sunlight. Its early blooms are a favourite in bee gardens, attracting pollinators in the early season. Pulmonaria makes an excellent shade ground cover in a spring garden. Explore the charm and versatility of this shade-loving plant and consider adding it to your collection. For those looking to enhance their garden's beauty, buy Pulmonaria in the UK to bring early colour to your outdoor space.

What is Pulmonaria and how is it used?

Pulmonaria, also known as lungwort, is a perennial plant found in the Boraginaceae family. It is recognised for its distinct spotted foliage, making it an attractive addition to shaded gardens or natural settings. This spring nectar plant blooms early, offering a vital food source for bees and bumblebees, adding ecological value to gardens. Pulmonaria is sometimes referred to as a pulmonaria flower, and its leaves bear a unique resemblance to lungs, which is why it was historically used as a 'lung herb'. This plant is native to Europe and Asia, but it adapts well to gardens, providing ground cover and filling borders or shaded areas. The pasque flower, often confused with Pulmonaria, holds a different place in gardening. However, Pulmonaria remains popular as an early flowering shade perennial. Offering leaf spotting and mildew resistance, its spreading habit is beneficial for gardeners seeking easy maintenance. For gardeners wanting to enhance their spaces, Pulmonaria can be a great option to consider. Alongside other important plant names such as Lungwort and Spotted foliage perennial, it can truly enrich the planting palette.

Distinctive foliage and early blooms of Lungwort

Pulmonaria, often known for its unique growth and spreading habit, thrives in shaded areas and woodland edges. This perennial plant is excellent as a ground cover, forming attractive clumps that spread gradually. The leaves are hairy and display a speckled pattern, adding visual interest even when the plant is not in bloom. The development of Pulmonaria begins in early spring, making it one of the first blooms in the garden. Its flowering period stretches from February to May. The timing of its bloom can be affected by factors such as climate, temperature, and the care provided. Consistent moisture and well-prepared soil enable optimal growth. Pulmonaria showcases a beautiful array of flower colours, including blue, pink, purple, and lilac. The flowers are funnel-shaped, and their colours may change after pollination. The soil condition, light exposure, and plant age can influence these vibrant hues. Regarding fragrance, Pulmonaria is not particularly known for its scent but attracts bees, enhancing biodiversity. The plant's mature height varies between 20 cm and 40 cm, depending on the species and environmental conditions. Factors like location choice, soil type, and proper care play significant roles in its growth. Pulmonaria is an early garden plant with mottled leaves and blue-pink flowers, ideal for adding colour and life to a spring garden.

Pulmonaria is a fascinating plant known for its attractive foliage and early blooms. The leaves come in ovate or lanceolate shapes and are sometimes hairy. They display a dark green colour with silver or white spots, occasionally appearing grey-green. These decorative leaves adapt well to various conditions, making Pulmonaria an ideal choice for gardens that have shade and moisture, yet it also tolerates light drought. This plant is deciduous, losing its leaves in winter, but offers a charming presence with its variegated patterns. Pulmonaria is hardy, tolerating temperatures as low as -29°C and thriving in USDA zones 5 to 6. Its spring blooms appear from February to April, making it an excellent choice for those planning to grow Pulmonaria officinalis UK gardens. Despite cold, it withstands winter conditions well, particularly in sheltered spots away from harsh winds. Though Pulmonaria sheds its leaves in winter, it is a non-toxic plant, safe for children and pets. This suitability makes it a fantastic addition to family gardens. Pulmonaria's early blooms also provide a vital nectar source for bees, especially beneficial in spring when food is scarce. This plant not only enhances the beauty of the garden but also contributes to biodiversity by supporting insect life. With its decorative spotted foliage and resilience, Pulmonaria stands out as a valuable plant for those seeking to create a vibrant and ecological garden space.

Where to use Pulmonaria for spring colour and cover

Pulmonaria is an excellent choice for adding colour and texture to a garden, especially in spring. Known for its vibrant flowers and attractive foliage, Pulmonaria can be effectively used in various garden settings. Here are some applications for incorporating Pulmonaria:

Ground cover: Pulmonaria spreads quickly, making it an ideal choice for covering the ground in shaded areas, providing a lush carpet of greenery.
Border: Add Pulmonaria to garden borders to create a visually appealing edge with its distinctive blooms that transition from pink to blue.
Underplanting: Pulmonaria works well under trees and larger shrubs, offering a burst of spring colour while providing effective underplanting.
Shaded garden: As a shade-loving plant, Pulmonaria thrives in areas with less sunlight, bringing life and vibrancy to shaded corners of the garden.
Natural garden: Integrate Pulmonaria into a natural garden to enhance the wild, untamed look with its charming flowers and foliage.
Insect corner: Create a bee and butterfly-friendly space by planting Pulmonaria, which attracts pollinators with its early blooms.

Aside from Pulmonaria, consider adding the beautiful pasque flower to the garden for more springtime allure. Purchasing a pasque flower can enhance the garden's diversity and attract even more pollinators. Embrace the beauty of lungwort and other spring flowering shade plants to transform the garden into a vibrant oasis of colour and life.

Best companion plants for Pulmonaria in shade

Pulmonaria thrives in shaded areas and pairs well with other plants to create a vibrant garden display. Combining Pulmonaria with Helleborus, Brunnera, and Epimedium can enhance any shade border or woodland garden. These plants complement each other by offering varied textures and colours. Helleborus provides early flowers that match Pulmonaria's spring blooming. Brunnera adds shimmering blue flowers, creating a beautiful contrast to Pulmonaria's spotted foliage. Epimedium introduces heart-shaped leaves and delicate blooms, perfect under trees. Geraniums also work well, giving a burst of colour later in the season. These combinations are ideal for gardens needing ground cover, as each plant has unique features that add to the overall beauty. Pulmonaria has spotted leaves and flowers early in borders with border plants. By choosing these companions, a garden becomes a haven for early pollinators, providing nectar when few other plants bloom. Pulmonaria (pasque flower) as a spring garden plant brings life and interest to shaded areas, making it a valuable addition to any garden. Embrace these combinations for a vibrant, low-maintenance garden display.

Soil moisture and location needs for Lungwort success

Pulmonaria is an ideal plant for shady or partially shady areas. It thrives in well-drained, moist soil, making it perfect for gardens with tree shade. The plant's preference for low light conditions means areas with too much sun might lead to wilting. Wind can affect its growth, so providing shelter is beneficial. Strategically planting near windbreaks or using garden screens can help protect it from strong gusts. When considering soil, Pulmonaria favours humus-rich, acidic to neutral soils. A well-drained environment aids growth, and regular organic fertiliser ensures healthy development. Moisture levels in the soil are crucial, especially in hotter months. Wind and sun exposure can quickly dry out the soil, so mulching helps retain moisture. The pH preference for Pulmonaria is slightly acidic to neutral. Testing the soil and amending it with lime or compost as necessary can help maintain optimal conditions. Proper care and the right growing environment ensure Pulmonaria, a spring flowering shade plant, flourishes in any garden. For gardeners looking to add early flowering shade perennials, Pulmonaria (pasque flower) offers both beauty and resilience, making it a popular choice for purchase in the UK.

When and how to plant Pulmonaria in UK gardens

Pulmonaria is best planted in the spring or autumn when conditions are cool and moist. Plants in pots can be planted year-round, avoiding frost periods, while those with roots or clumps are best in spring or autumn. Choose a partially shady spot with well-draining, moist soil. Ensure the soil is moist and rich in humus by adding compost or leaf mould. Avoid dry or sunny locations for the planting site. For planting distance, consider the size of the Pulmonaria when planting and its growth rate. Planting information, including the number of plants per metre, can be found on the Heijnen product page. Generally, plants should be spaced to allow them to fill the area without overcrowding. Proper ground preparation is crucial. Use Heijnen planting soil and ensure the soil is well-draining and moist. Pulmonaria prefers acidic to neutral, humus-rich forest soil, perfect for shade or partial shade areas. After planting Pulmonaria, water well and apply mulch to retain moisture. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells. Fertiliser can be added in spring for better growth. Pulmonaria (pasque flower) will thrive with the right care, providing beautiful blooms in spring gardens.

Pulmonaria care guide: pruning and pests

Pulmonaria is a perennial plant that blooms from February to April. It is known for its spotted foliage and as a spring nectar plant. This guide provides essential care tips to ensure healthy growth.

Plant in shaded areas with moist, humus-rich soil to thrive.
Prune directly after flowering to remove faded flowers, using sharp secateurs for clean cuts.
Regularly divide Pulmonaria to maintain vigour and encourage fresh growth.
Apply fertiliser in early spring to support blooming and foliage development.
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist.
If required, protect the plant in winter by adding a mulch layer to the base.
For transplanting, choose early spring, ensuring roots are kept moist and well-watered afterwards.
Due to their ecological role, Pulmonaria serves as an excellent ground cover in shaded gardens and natural areas, attracting bees.

Decorative foliage and early nectar appeal of Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria is known for its stunning decorative foliage and early flowering, making it a favourite in spring gardens. The dark green leaves with silver or white spots provide a unique visual appeal that lasts throughout the season. Pulmonaria is an early bee plant with spotted foliage. The flowers bloom in shades of blue, pink, and violet, offering an important nectar source for bees and other pollinators during early spring. As a shade ground cover, Pulmonaria thrives in woodland gardens and shady borders, where it forms lovely clumps. This perennial is not only admired for its visual aesthetic but also for its ecological value, attracting various insects. Pulmonaria flowering marks the arrival of spring, adding vibrant colours to any garden. The plant's ability to spread makes it ideal for covering bare ground, and its hardy nature ensures longevity in garden settings. Its role as a spring flowering shade plant facilitates biodiversity, supporting early pollinators when few other flowers are available. Lungwort is a must-have for any gardener looking to enhance their spring garden with durable and attractive plants.

Favourite Pulmonaria varieties for UK gardeners

Pulmonaria, commonly known as lungwort, is a popular spring flowering shade plant cherished by UK gardeners. This perennial is known for its vibrant blooms and its ability to thrive in shaded areas, making it ideal for adding colour to parts of the garden that receive less sunlight. Pulmonaria is also favoured for its mildew resistance and ability to support wildlife like bees early in the season. Here are some of the most sought-after varieties:

Pulmonaria angustifolia 'Blue Ensign': This variety is admired for its striking deep blue flowers that bloom from February to April. It has a compact size and thrives in shaded areas, making it perfect for borders or under trees.
Pulmonaria officinalis: Known as the common lungwort, this variety features attractive spotted leaves and pinkish flowers that turn blue as they age. It is excellent for bees and adds a lovely touch to any garden.
Pulmonaria saccharata 'Mrs. Moon': This variety is popular for its unique foliage with silver spots and pink flowers that fade to blue. It is easy to grow and spreads nicely without becoming invasive.
Pulmonaria saccharata 'Opal': Known for its light pink flowers that appear almost opalescent, 'Opal' provides a delicate touch to the garden. Its robust nature and leaf spotting resistance make it a gardener's favourite.

These pulmonary varieties are perfect for those looking to grow Pulmonaria officinalis in the UK or add early flowering shade perennials to their garden. With their spreading habit and resistance to common leaf spotting issues, they are an excellent choice for creating a vibrant and healthy garden space. Pulmonaria plants are available to buy in the UK, and each offers unique features that will enhance any outdoor area. These popular and widely used types can be ordered online from Heijnen.

Pulmonaria: strengths and shortcomings in garden use

Pulmonaria is a fascinating plant that adds beauty to any garden. This plant is known for its early spring blooms and lush foliage.

Advantages:

Very early flowering: Pulmonaria is among the first plants to flower in spring, bringing colour to gardens after winter.
Attracts insects: The flowers are a magnet for bees and butterflies, helping to promote biodiversity.
Hardy: This plant is resilient and can thrive in different weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for gardeners.
Decorative foliage: The leaves of Pulmonaria are often spotted and remain attractive throughout the growing season.
Ideal for woodland gardens: Pulmonaria thrives in shaded areas, making it perfect for woodland and shaded garden spots.

Disadvantages:

Mildew-prone in dry air: Pulmonaria can develop mildew if the air is too dry, needing regular watering to prevent this.
Requires humid environment: This plant prefers a humid setting, which might be challenging in certain climates.

Proper soil preparation, placement, and care, along with timely fertilisation, can reduce the risk of disease and pests. Ensuring the plant receives appropriate care will support its growth and bloom.

Purchase Pulmonaria at Heijnen for early spring charm

Pulmonaria is perfect for those looking to add beauty to a shade border or woodland garden. This plant thrives in shaded areas, offering early blooms from February to April. Pulmonaria is known for its decorative spotted foliage and is hardy, making it a reliable choice for any garden. Its ability to attract insects, especially bees, is a significant advantage, ensuring a vibrant garden ecosystem. Moreover, Pulmonaria's resistance to leaf spotting and mildew makes it an excellent choice for gardening enthusiasts seeking resilient plants. Its spreading habit ensures coverage and fullness, bringing life to shaded spots in the garden. When considering adding Pulmonaria to the garden, Heijnen offers a great selection, ensuring quality plants that will enhance any outdoor space. Pulmonaria pairs well with other early flowering shade perennials, such as the pasque flower, creating a harmonious and colourful garden space. Buy the early-blooming Pulmonaria (Lungwort) from Heijnen and attract bees with spotted foliage and purple-blue flowers.

Ideal placement of a Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria thrives best in shaded to partially shaded areas of the garden. It requires well-drained, moist soil that is rich in humus, making it ideal for woodland gardens. Pulmonaria benefits from a location that offers protection from strong winds and direct sunlight. The right spot ensures better growth and vibrant spotted foliage, enhancing the plant's decorative appeal. Acidic to neutral soils are optimal for its development. Pulmonaria can tolerate moisture and light drought but performs best in consistently moist environments. This plant is versatile, suitable for use as ground cover, in borders, and underplanting. It's a perfect choice for shaded gardens and insect corners, attracting bees with its early spring blooms. Choosing the right spot in the garden is essential for its successful growth and flowering.

Planting a Pulmonaria

Proper soil preparation is essential before planting Pulmonaria. Begin by loosening the soil to improve water drainage and ensure nutrients are well distributed. Mixing in organic materials like compost will enrich the soil. This preparation supports healthy root growth and plant establishment. Wait until after the soil is prepared to start planting. Pulmonaria prefer a humus-rich, moist forest soil, and thrive in shade to partial shade. Pot-grown Pulmonaria can usually be planted year-round, except during frosty periods. If using plants with a root ball, plant them with the jute sack intact; spring or autumn is ideal. After planting, watering is crucial until plants are well-rooted. The size of the plant at planting time determines how many can fit per square metre. Pulmonaria flowering in spring adds beauty to any garden, especially as shade ground cover.

Fertilising a Pulmonaria

Feeding Pulmonaria plants is crucial for healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Fertilising in early spring boosts their vitality and supports flowering. However, overfeeding can harm their health. Organic fertilisers, like those from Heijnen, provide balanced nutrients, promoting rich blooms and robust health. Pulmonaria benefits from feeding twice a year—early spring and possibly summer for a second bloom. Apply the fertiliser according to plant size, ensuring it reaches the soil with the help of rain or watering. In dry spells, ensure to water after fertilising for optimal nutrient uptake. By nurturing these plants with suitable organic fertilisers, gardens become filled with their beautiful, spotted foliage and colourful flowers.

Pruning a Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria benefits from regular pruning to maintain its health and appearance. Pruning involves removing leaves after blooming, which encourages fresh growth and helps maintain the plant's shape. This is important for ensuring the plant remains robust and continues to thrive in the garden. Prune Pulmonaria directly after flowering to remove faded flowers. This timing allows the plant to focus on new growth and prepares it for the next blooming season. It's advisable to use sharp secateurs for the task. Good quality tools are essential as they make clean cuts, reducing the risk of damage to the plant. Pulmonaria flourishes in moist, humus-rich soil, and regular division keeps it vigorous. By maintaining these practices, the garden not only looks neat but also supports the health and longevity of the pasque flower.

Watering a Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria plants need moist, humus-rich soil and regular watering, especially when newly planted. Initially, frequent watering helps roots establish. Once settled, they need water only during prolonged dry spells. Watering deeply is more effective than frequent light watering. The best time to water is early morning or late afternoon to reduce evaporation. Always check the soil to ensure water is needed, as excess water should drain away easily. This applies to both garden beds and container plants. While Pulmonaria can tolerate short dry periods, creating a moist microclimate is favourable. Drip irrigation is most effective once the plant is fully rooted, but initially, additional watering is necessary. Pulmonaria, unlike the pasque flower, thrives best without drying out.

The characteristics of a Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria, with its enchanting spotted leaves, is a charming addition to any garden. Known for early blooming, it invites bees and other insects, enhancing biodiversity. This resilient plant thrives in shaded areas, making it perfect for woodland gardens. Historically, its leaves were thought to resemble lung structure and symbolised healing. Pulmonaria is safe for both children and pets, adding beauty without worry. For a stunning spring display, consider combining it with the vibrant pasque flower.

Separating/dividing a Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria is an ideal plant for splitting to ensure healthy growth and more blooms in the garden. Splitting every three to five years helps in rejuvenating the plant and allows for propagation. This process removes older parts, making space for new growth. The benefits include a more vigorous plant and the opportunity to spread Pulmonaria to other areas. To split, dig up the plant, remove old sections, and replant the younger parts. The best time for this is in late summer or early spring. Use a spade or garden fork for digging and a sharp knife for clean cuts. Pulmonaria care involves regular division, ensuring a thriving and beautiful addition to any garden, alongside plants like the pasque flower.

The ideal variety for you Buy pulmonaria (pasque flower)

Pasque flower features very early flowering and is ideal for woodland gardens. Attracting bumblebees, it offers an essential nectar source. The plant shows decorative foliage with hairy, speckled leaves, and funnel-shaped flowers that change colour as they bloom from March to May. It's a hardy choice for shade borders and underplanting. Buy Pulmonaria (pasque flower) from Heijnen and enhance the garden's charm.

0203 455 22 48

Send an e-mail
[email protected]

Personal advice from
our specialists? We are happy to help you!