Overview

Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet' is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Pulmonaria, part of the Boraginaceae family, with semi-evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.3 m tall and 0.5 m wide. Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet' grows best in full shade, and tolerates most soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include ground cover, edging plants, cottage gardens and wildlife gardens. It is native to Europe.

About

Pulmonaria officinalis, common names lungwort, common lungwort, Mary's tears or Our Lady's milk drops, is a herbaceous rhizomatous evergreen perennial plant of the genus Pulmonaria, belonging to the family Boraginaceae.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Pulmonaria officinalis

About the genus

Pulmonaria (lungwort) is a genus of flowering plants in the family Boraginaceae, native to Europe and western Asia, with one species east to central Asia. According to various estimates there may be between 10 and 18 species found in the wild.

Wikipedia contributors, "Pulmonaria", CC BY-SA 4.0Pulmonaria

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Pulmonaria

Sunlight
Full shade
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
North-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
herbaceous perennial
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Semi-evergreen
Height
0.3 m
Spread
0.5 m
Suggested uses
Ground cover, edging plants, cottage gardens, wildlife gardens
Native to
Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet'

Cultivation
Prefers moist, well-drained soil in shaded or partially shaded locations; mulch to retain moisture; avoid direct sunlight
Pruning
Remove old or damaged leaves in early spring to encourage fresh growth
Propagation
Division after flowering or in autumn
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Powdery mildews

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet'?

Prefers moist, well-drained soil in shaded or partially shaded locations; mulch to retain moisture; avoid direct sunlight.

Where is the best place to plant Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet'?

Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet' prefers full shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet' need?

Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet'?

Remove old or damaged leaves in early spring to encourage fresh growth.

How big does Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet' grow?

Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet' reaches a height of 0.3 m and a spread of 0.5 m.

Is Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet' hardy in the UK?

Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet' has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Pulmonaria officinalis 'Ice Ballet'?

Division after flowering or in autumn.

More in the Pulmonaria genus

Browse all Pulmonaria