Overview
Pulmonaria 'Opal' is a clump forming perennial in the genus Pulmonaria, part of the Boraginaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Pulmonaria 'Opal' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens, flower borders and beds and ground cover.
About
Pulmonaria 'Opal' is a clump-forming perennial in the Boraginaceae and a member of the genus Pulmonaria. It produces its flowers in early spring, reliably appearing from March to May. The plant develops basal leaves in rosettes and spreads slowly via a creeping rhizome. Allow space for individual clumps to expand and divide older plants when they become congested.
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 4.0 — Pulmonaria
In the garden
Pulmonaria 'Opal' belongs to the genus Pulmonaria within the Boraginaceae and behaves as a perennial that forms clumps or rosettes. Flowering occurs in the spring months of March to May, when unbranched, hairy stems carry the season's blooms. The species-level habit includes a slowly creeping underground rhizome, so plants establish as low clumps that can gradually expand across a planting. Plant with room for a spread of up to around 60 cm and expect a modest height from the basal rosette to the tops of the flowering stems. When clumps begin to crowd, lift and divide by separating sections of the rhizome to renew vigour and keep plants fresh. Removing spent flower stems after the March–May display will tidy the clump and allow the foliage to remain the main feature for the rest of the season. Pulmonaria 'Opal' suits positions where early-season flowers are valued and where a low, spreading perennial is required. Its growth habit makes it suited to the front of mixed borders, under taller perennials, or wherever a spring-flowering ground layer is needed. Keep an eye on older clumps each few years and divide to maintain a clean outline and steady flowering the following spring.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pulmonaria
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Pulmonaria 'Opal' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds, Ground cover
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pulmonaria 'Opal'
- Cultivation
- Prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Avoid full sun and dry conditions. Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots in winter.
- Pruning
- Remove old or damaged leaves in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
- Propagation
- Division after flowering or in autumn
- Pest resistance
- Slugs, Snails
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildew
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Pulmonaria 'Opal'?
Prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Avoid full sun and dry conditions. Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots in winter.
Where is the best place to plant Pulmonaria 'Opal'?
Pulmonaria 'Opal' prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Pulmonaria 'Opal' need?
Pulmonaria 'Opal' grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Pulmonaria 'Opal'?
Remove old or damaged leaves in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Is Pulmonaria 'Opal' hardy in the UK?
Pulmonaria 'Opal' 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 'Opal'?
Division after flowering or in autumn.
