Pulmonaria rubra (red lungwort) — perennial

Overview

Pulmonaria rubra is a perennial in the genus Pulmonaria, part of the Boraginaceae family. Pulmonaria rubra grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates most soils and neutral and acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include groundcover, woodland garden and shade garden. It is native to SE Europe.

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 rubra is a shade-tolerant perennial from south-eastern Europe in the Boraginaceae. Its seasonal interest centres on spring flowering, with blooms reliably appearing during March to May. The genus adapts to cooler, sheltered spots rather than open sun. Position plants where they will receive partial shade or steady shade and work generous organic matter into the soil before planting; the species prefers moist, well-drained, humus-rich conditions on neutral to acidic ground. Mulching with leaf mould or compost will help maintain soil moisture and a loose humus layer, which benefits root growth and seasonal vigour. As an H7-rated plant, it is fully hardy across the UK and does not require winter protection in ordinary garden sites. Use Pulmonaria rubra as a ground cover in a shaded border, naturalised under trees, or as part of a woodland garden scheme where it can occupy moist pockets between larger shade plants. Grouping plants gives a more effective cover and helps retain soil moisture. Expect its spring flowering from March to May to provide an early-season lift in darker parts of the garden.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Pulmonaria

Sunlight: partial shade, shade
Soil type: moist, well-drained, humus-rich
Soil pH: neutral, acidic
Soil moisture: moist
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Pulmonaria rubra size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: groundcover, woodland garden, shade garden
Native to: SE Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Pulmonaria rubra

Cultivation: Prefers cool, shaded locations with moist, humus-rich soil. Avoid direct hot sun. Mulch to retain moisture.
Pruning: Remove old leaves in early spring before new growth appears to tidy the plant.
Propagation: Division in early spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but slow.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Pulmonaria rubra?

Prefers cool, shaded locations with moist, humus-rich soil. Avoid direct hot sun. Mulch to retain moisture.

Where is the best place to plant Pulmonaria rubra?

Pulmonaria rubra prefers partial shade and shade.

What soil does Pulmonaria rubra need?

Pulmonaria rubra is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including moist, well-drained and humus-rich. It prefers neutral and acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.