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
Pulmonaria rubra is a perennial in the Boraginaceae that produces its flowers in early spring. It grows best in partial shade or full shade on moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil of neutral to acidic reaction. Fully hardy (H7) in the UK, it suits shaded borders and woodland ground cover positions. Flowering takes place from March to May.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pulmonaria rubra
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.
How do I prune Pulmonaria rubra?
Remove old leaves in early spring before new growth appears to tidy the plant.
Is Pulmonaria rubra hardy in the UK?
Pulmonaria rubra has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Pulmonaria rubra?
Division in early spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but slow.
More in the Pulmonaria genus
- Pulmonaria 'Blue Ensign'Lungwort
- Pulmonaria 'Opal'Lungwort
- Pulmonaria 'Trevi Fountain'Lungwort
- Pulmonaria 'Diane Clare'Lungwort