Common Names: Long-leafed lungwort, lungwort, Bethlehem sage
Scientific Name: Pulmonaria longifolia
Family: Boraginaceae (Borage family)
Native Range: Western Europe, including Britain, France, Spain, and Portugal
Growth Habit: Semi-evergreen, clump-forming herbaceous perennial
Height: Typically reaches 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall
Width: Can spread to 24 inches (60 cm) wide
Leaves:
Basal leaves are narrow, long-stalked, and sharply-tipped
Deep green with striking gray-white spots or blotches
Can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) long and 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wide
Flowers:
Funnel-shaped flowers bloom in shades of blue, purple, or pink
Appear in early spring before the leaves fully emerge
Attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies
Soil Preferences:
Prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil
Tolerates partial shade to full shade
Avoids dry soils, direct sun, and extreme heat
Uses:
Ground cover in woodland gardens
Borders and edging
Rock gardens
Effective substitute for hostas
Notable Features:
Attractive foliage with distinctive spots
Early-blooming flowers
Low-maintenance and adaptable
Note: While the common name "lungwort" suggests medicinal properties, there is no scientific evidence to support its use in treating lung diseases.
