Pulmonaria officinalis aka Lungwort
Taxonomy ID: 7698
Pulmonaria officinalis, also known as common lungwort, Mary's tears, or Our Lady's milk drops, is an herbaceous rhizomatous evergreen perennial plant from the family Boraginaceae. Its leaves are lung-shaped, which gave it its name. It was once used medicinally to treat lung ailments but is now primarily known as a perennial landscape flower that blooms in early spring before most other flowers. This low-growing woodland plant prefers a shady, moist location and has oval, pointed leaves that can be solid green or variegated with spots or splashes of white, giving them a bleached appearance. The flower stalks can reach 18 inches and are loved by bees. Common lungwort is a rare houseplant that is easy to grow and needs regular watering in direct light within one foot of a window. It prefers soil that retains moisture and does not require additional fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. Pulmonaria officinalis is native to Europe.
Common names
Lungwort, Jerusalem Cowslip, Jerusalem Sage, Common LungwortMore information about Lungwort
How difficult is it to take care of Lungwort
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Lungwort is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
What is the growth pattern and size of Lungwort?
The Lungwort is characterized by clumping growth, with new shoots emerging from the soil around the primary plant.
What is the region of origin of Lungwort
Lungwort’s native range is Europe. Naturalized in Britain.
What are the water needs for Lungwort
Lungwort should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Lungwort
Lungwort is very sensitive to dry soil. To ensure your Jerusalem Cowslip is thriving and blooming, choose a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still allow for adequate drainage and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great soil additives that will help to retain moisture and provide your Jerusalem Cowslip with the nutrients it needs for healthy growth. Make sure to mix these soil additives into the potting soil before planting and water the soil thoroughly. By providing your Lungwort with a well-draining, moisture-retaining soil, you can help to maximize its growth and keep it blooming.
What is the sunlight requirement for Lungwort
Lungwort requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Jerusalem Cowslip is always in the right place to thrive.
How to fertilize Lungwort
The Lungwort grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.
Is Lungwort toxic to humans/pets?
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
What seasonal care does Lungwort need?
During the cold period, it is common for Lungwort to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
About Ploi
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