How to Grow and Care for Lungworts

Lungwort is based on the Latin word pulmo, which means lung. Common lungwort is an herbaceous evergreen that resembles a rhizome that grows perennially. Carl Linnaeus called the species officinalis after the medicinal characteristics of these plants, which have been used for treating coughs and chest illnesses since about the Middle Ages. It is non-invasive and spreads slowly by creeping roots.

Lungwort (Pulmonaria affinis) is a perennial woodland plant native to the mountains of Spain and France. It is distinct for its pretty violet-pink rosettes. The attractive blooms and foliage, and the fact that it grows as a cover plant, make it popular in woodland gardens.

The leaves of suffolk lungwort (Pulmonaria obscura), like other Pulmonaria species, have silvery spots and resemble lungs, giving rise to both its scientific and common names. The leaves of the suffolk lungwort have tiny hairs that can cause mild irritation or rashes if handled. They are found happily growing in the shade in less than fertile soil.

Bethlehem lungwort is a slow creeping plant valued for its attractive leaves full of striking white spots set against deep green leaves. Its Latin name (Pulmonaria saccharata) comes from the Latin word pulmo meaning "lung" and saccharratus meaning "sugary," referencing the powdered sugar looking leaves. It is Ideal for ground cover in shade gardens with rich, organic soils.

Narrow-leaved lungwort is an ornamental plant used often in shaded gardens where it is valued for its blotchy grey-white leaves and eye-catching two-toned flowers. It is pest and deer-resistant. Its Latin name (Pulmonaria longifolia) orginates form the Latin word pulmo, meaning "lung."