Narrow-leaved Lungwort
pulmonaria affinis
Also known as: ["Lungwort","Jerusalem Cowslip"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with spotted leaves and clusters of pink or blue flowers, native to Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Pulmonaria |
| Botanical Name: | Pulmonaria affinis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter; loamy soil is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; every 3–4 years to divide and rejuvenate the plant.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing spent flowers and thinning overcrowded areas.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 3–4 hours of morning sunlight or dappled light is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to brighter light if moving from deep shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; place in a location with consistent, gentle light for best growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is preferable; avoid direct afternoon sun; dappled light is ideal for Pulmonaria.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf spot; water at the base of the plant.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is rich in organic matter; maintain consistent moisture; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures; ideal range is 60–70°F (15–21°C); tolerates cooler spring and fall temperatures.
Protect from extreme heat; mulch to insulate roots in winter; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid fertilizing during hot weather; use a balanced formula for overall health.
Propagation
Methods
Division is the most reliable method; can also be propagated from seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps every 3–4 years.
- Separate healthy sections with roots.
- Replant immediately at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Moist, cool environment with partial shade; maintain consistent soil moisture for seeds.
Medium
Rich, well-draining soil with added organic matter; can also be propagated in a standard potting mix.
Hormone
Not necessary for division; optional for seed propagation to improve germination rates.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: germination in 3–4 weeks, establishment in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, pruning shears, gloves.
Quick Tips
Divide in early spring or fall; ensure each division has roots and foliage; water well after replanting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower stalks back to the base; thin out older or weaker stems; remove dead leaves as needed.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; thin out crowded clumps to improve air circulation; remove any dead or damaged foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean knife.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; thin out crowded growth; clean tools before and after use; dispose of removed plant parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during hot summer months.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by one size up or 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its container; loosen root ball if compacted; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Pulmonaria is typically grown in the ground; if grown in a container, repot every 2–3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Choose the right time; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; water well after repotting; monitor for stress.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure good drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone to encourage deep roots; ensure water penetrates the soil to a depth of 6–8 inches; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during spring and early summer when growth is active; reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; slow growth or yellowing in overly cold conditions; bud drop or poor flowering if temperatures fluctuate widely.
Cold Stress
Pulmonaria can tolerate cold but may experience slowed growth or leaf damage if temperatures drop below freezing without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in late fall; protect from harsh winter winds; avoid overwatering in cold weather to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor; may go dormant if temperatures are too high.
Solution: Provide shade during peak afternoon sun; increase watering frequency in hot weather; ensure good air circulation to reduce heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Fertilize in early spring; use a balanced formula; avoid over-fertilizing; stop fertilizing in late summer.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers; discontinue fertilizing in late summer to allow the plant to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPulmonaria affinis is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would affect feline health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPulmonaria affinis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPulmonaria affinis is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known adverse physiological effects when handled or ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Pulmonaria affinis prefer sun or shade?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full shade.
Q: How often should I water Pulmonaria affinis?
A: Water moderately, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Does Pulmonaria affinis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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