Pulmonaria – Spotted Leaves and Early Blooms That Steal the Spring Show

Plant Profile – Pulmonaria: Spotted Leaves and Early Blooms

There’s something magical about that first real burst of colour after winter. You’re still finding rogue mittens in the yard, and suddenly—there it is. A hardy little plant unfurling silver-spotted leaves and delicate blossoms in joyful pinks, purples, and blues. No fuss, no drama—just quiet garden magic.

That’s Pulmonaria for you. Also known as lungwort, it’s a shade-loving perennial that shows up early and keeps things interesting well into the season.

🌱 Get to Know Pulmonaria

Botanical name: Pulmonaria spp.
Common name: Lungwort
Hardiness: Zones 3–4
Light: Part shade to full shade
Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained
Bloom time: Early spring
Height & spread: 20–40 cm tall, 30–60 cm wide

What makes Pulmonaria special isn’t just when it blooms—it’s how it looks doing it. The foliage alone is enough to win hearts, but those blooms? Pure joy.

🎨 Why Gardeners Love It

• Early colour. Blooms often arrive in March or April, when the garden needs it most.

• Unique leaves. Spotted or silver-splashed foliage that lasts long after flowering.

• Low maintenance. Hardy, deer-resistant, and generally unbothered by pests.

🌸 Pulmonaria Varieties We Carry (and Adore)

Here’s the line-up of Pulmonaria stars available at our nursery—each one with its own personality and charm:

🌕 Moonshine

Elegant & ethereal
With icy-silver leaves that shimmer even in full shade and soft powder-blue blooms, Moonshine is the calm, cool presence in the spring garden. It's subtle in the best way—like a gentle morning frost that quietly steals the show.

🌊 Trevi Fountain

Bold & beautiful
Rich blue flowers and dramatic silver-spotted foliage make Trevi Fountain a must-have for adding texture and contrast. Think of it as the garden equivalent of a great statement necklace.

🍓 Raspberry Splash

Cheerful & charming
This one’s pure fun. Vibrant raspberry-pink blooms pair with frosty silver spots on dark green leaves. Raspberry Splash brings serious cottage garden energy with a touch of glam.

🍤 Shrimps on the Barbie

Playful & unexpected
Yes, the name is as delightful as the plant. Shrimps on the Barbie features coral-pink blooms that look downright tropical (despite being tough as nails). It’s quirky, colourful, and sure to spark conversation.

🎨 Pink-a-Blue

Soft & storybook sweet
If you’re a fan of pastel charm, Pink-a-Blue is your go-to. The blooms open pink and fade to blue, creating a dreamy blend of both on the same plant. Perfect for romantic woodland gardens or whimsical borders.

🖤 Dark Vader

Mysterious & moody (but in a good way)
This variety brings drama in the best sense. Deep green leaves with sharp silver spots, paired with rich violet-blue flowers—Dark Vader adds a little edge to the soft, shady garden scene. Yes, the force is strong with this one.

🌿 Growing Tips for Pulmonaria

Pulmonaria doesn’t ask for much—just a little love in the right spot:

• Plant in partial to full shade. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal.

• Keep soil moist and rich. Add compost or organic matter when planting.

• Water during dry spells. Especially during summer heat.

• Mulch for moisture. Helps regulate soil temp and suppress weeds.

• Divide every 3–5 years. It’s easy, and your neighbours will thank you for the extras.

Note: Slugs may make an appearance if conditions are very wet. A sprinkle of crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base usually does the trick.

🌼 Why Pulmonaria Belongs in Your Garden

Pulmonaria is one of those quietly brilliant plants. It doesn’t boast or demand attention—but it turns heads anyway. With blooms when few others dare, foliage that keeps on giving, and names that practically beg for garden gossip (Shrimps on the Barbie, anyone?), it brings both beauty and delight.

Whether you’re planting a shady border, filling in under trees, or creating a dreamy cottage-style bed, Pulmonaria brings early joy and lasting interest—with zero diva behaviour.