Pulmonaria 'Shrimps on the Barbie'

Pulmonaria 'Shrimps on the Barbie': Coral Clusters to Wake Up Spring Shade

Big, fluted coral-pink bells the exact colour of dinner on the grill. 'Shrimps on the Barbie' brings cookout energy to the shady side of the yard. FIRE UP THE PATIO.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Pulmonaria hybrid
• Common Name: Lungwort
• Height: 20–25 cm (8–10 in)
• Spread: 45–60 cm (18–24 in)
• Flowers: Large, fluted, coral-pink to shrimp-pink bells in generous clusters
• Bloom Time: Early to mid-spring (April to May)
• Foliage: Medium-large green leaves boldly spotted in white
• Features: Rabbit resistant, mildew resistant

Where to Plant: Because it spreads wide and stays low, it's a fine choice for covering ground under trees and shrubs, or for a front-of-border edge in the shade. A small group makes a bright patch of colour in early spring.

Companion Plants: Epimedium 'Frohnleiten' adds yellow flowers in April and May, a warm partner for coral lungwort. Astilbe 'Amethyst' brings purple plumes at 90 to 100 cm in June and July. Liriope 'Royal Purple' closes with purple spikes in August and September. All three like shade or part shade.

Plant Care: Plant in moist, rich, well-drained soil in part to full shade. Work compost into clay soils. Water regularly during its first season and in dry spells after that. Mulch keeps the roots cool and the leaves looking fresh. Cut it back hard once flowering is over and a new flush of spotted leaves will follow. Divide in early fall when the clump gets crowded.

History: 'Shrimps on the Barbie' was developed by Terra Nova Nurseries in Oregon, which tested it for several years before releasing it, mainly to be sure of its colour and mildew resistance. The name borrows a famous Australian catchphrase about a backyard barbecue.

Final Thoughts: Deer and rabbits won't touch it, and the white-spotted leaves look good long after spring. Plant it by the deck. NO TONGS REQUIRED.