Overview
Pulmonaria saccharata is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Pulmonaria, part of the Boraginaceae family. It typically grows around 0.3 m tall. Pulmonaria saccharata grows best in full sun and full shade, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to 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 saccharata originates from Europe and belongs to the Boraginaceae. It forms a low, clump-forming perennial that is valued for leaves marked with pale spots and a flush of pink or white flowers in spring, flowering from March to May. Grow it in moist but well-drained soil types — sandy, loamy or clay will all work provided drainage is adequate. It tolerates a wide range of light from full sun to full shade, but in hotter, exposed sites some afternoon shade will help soils stay cool and retain moisture. The plant is H7, fully hardy in the UK, and is suitable for USDA zones 4–8. Use Pulmonaria saccharata as an early-season ground cover or underplanting in shady borders and woodland-edge plantings where low height and spring bloom are wanted. Expect compact clumps around 0.3 m high; the spotted leaves carry the plant’s interest after flowers finish, so place it where the foliage can be seen from paths or seating areas. Its spring display of pink or white flowers makes it a practical choice for brightening the shade before many shrubs come into leaf.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pulmonaria
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Full shade
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Pulmonaria saccharata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous perennial
- Height
- 0.3 m
- Native to
- Europe
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pulmonaria saccharata?
Pulmonaria saccharata prefers full sun and full shade.
What soil does Pulmonaria saccharata need?
Pulmonaria saccharata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Pulmonaria saccharata grow?
Pulmonaria saccharata reaches a height of 0.3 m.
Is Pulmonaria saccharata hardy in the UK?
Pulmonaria saccharata has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
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More in the Pulmonaria genus
- Pulmonaria 'Blue Ensign'Lungwort
- Pulmonaria 'Opal'Lungwort
- Pulmonaria 'Trevi Fountain'Lungwort
- Pulmonaria angustifolianarrow-leaved lungwort
- Pulmonaria angustifolia 'Alba'White Lungwort
- Pulmonaria angustifolia 'Azurea'lungwort 'Azurea'
- Pulmonaria angustifolia 'Mawson's Variety' & 'Munstead Variety'Lungwort
- Pulmonaria longifolianarrow-leaved lungwort
