Pulmonaria officinalis is not indigenous to the UK but has naturalised widely.
The common name is derived from the white spots on the long blue-green leaves.
These were thought to resemble the alveolar cavities of our lungs and so the plant was thought to be good for curing respiratory troubles.
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These low growing hardy perennials are suitable for a rock garden, or for ground cover in shaded areas.
They have green narrow white spotted leaves, and clusters of small trumpet shaped flower appear in March/May.
Flower colors can be blue,red,violet or white.
Some species having red-pink flower buds that open reddish - violet in colour then turn blue as they age.
Flowers close at night and open again in the morning.
New leaves begin to grow a few days after the first flowers open.
The first flowers may open when stems are only 25mm (1") out of the ground and more flowers open over the next few weeks as the stems reach their full height, which is generally around 250-500mm (10"-18") for most varieties.
The flowers are prolific sources of pollen making them an attractive plant for bees and wasps.
Cultivation;
Week 17; Sow seed in trays of seed compost and germinate at a temperature of 10°- 12°C (50°- 54°F)
Note; seed may not come true to form!
Week 20; Divide established plants every three to four years after flowering and replant immediately.
Week 40; Plant out in a shady position anytime from until March, in any ordinary moist garden soil.
A spot that gets spring sunshine and morning light is ideal.
Keep the roots moist in the growing season by mulching with peat and/or regular watering.
They will wilt under the intense heat and light of summer sun.
They may also suffer from powdery mildew in humid conditions.
If not done earlier; lift and divide large clumps if necessary every three to four years.
