Overview

Pulmonaria saccharata 'Boughton Blue' is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Pulmonaria, part of the Boraginaceae family. It typically grows around 0.3 m tall. Pulmonaria saccharata 'Boughton Blue' grows best in full sun and full shade, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to France and Italy.

About

Pulmonaria saccharata 'Boughton Blue' is a herbaceous perennial in the Boraginaceae that flowers in early spring and carries characterful spotted foliage. It reaches about 0.3 m in height and blooms from March to May. Native to France and Italy, it accepts a wide range of soils. Common names include Lungwort, Soldiers and Sailors and Spotted Dog.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Pulmonaria saccharata

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

In the garden

Pulmonaria saccharata 'Boughton Blue' belongs to the Boraginaceae and originates from France and Italy. As a herbaceous perennial it comes into flower from March to May, making it one of the earlier perennials to show colour in a temperate spring. Many gardeners recognise it by its spotted leaves and restrained stature of roughly 0.3 m. Plants will tolerate both full sun and full shade, so choose a position according to how dry the site becomes in summer; it performs best in moist but well-drained conditions. Soil can be sandy, loamy or clay, so long as moisture is consistent rather than drought-prone. In UK hardiness terms it is H7 (fully hardy) and will withstand typical winter exposure; the USDA range 4–8 gives an idea of its wider climatic tolerance. Use specimens at the front of a mixed border, as underplanting beneath larger shrubs, or in a shady edge where early spring flowers are wanted without much height. At c.0.3 m tall it slots into tight spaces where a low, spring-flowering perennial is needed.

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 'Boughton Blue' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous perennial
Height
0.3 m
Native to
France, Italy

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Pulmonaria saccharata 'Boughton Blue'?

Pulmonaria saccharata 'Boughton Blue' prefers full sun and full shade.

What soil does Pulmonaria saccharata 'Boughton Blue' need?

Pulmonaria saccharata 'Boughton Blue' 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 'Boughton Blue' grow?

Pulmonaria saccharata 'Boughton Blue' reaches a height of 0.3 m.

Is Pulmonaria saccharata 'Boughton Blue' hardy in the UK?

Pulmonaria saccharata 'Boughton Blue' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

More in the Pulmonaria genus

Browse all Pulmonaria