Lungwort is an elegant shade plant with stunning spotted, striped or solid green leaves that thrives in moist shady soil conditions and woodland gardens. Additionally, this versatile groundcover tolerates light to moderate heat levels as well as thrives even more so in shaded locations.
It is toxic to humans
Lungwort is an adaptable shade plant, tolerant to different lighting conditions; however, harsh sunlight should be avoided as this will scorch its foliage and harm its growth. Humus-rich soil works best, and gardens often grow it for its lovely blue flowers or its unique spotted varieties which add interest. These versatile blooms make an excellent edging border or grow underneath deciduous trees like oaks.
This plant's name derives from its resemblance to human lungs, and was often employed in traditional European herbal medicine to treat numerous lung conditions. Its leaves and flowers were used to relieve coughs, chest pains, urinary tract diseases and tuberculosis symptoms; while its high mucilage content provided relief for respiratory ailments like asthma or bronchitis. Finally, fever and inflammation could be reduced with its high anti-inflammatory potential.
Although lungwort is generally toxic, small doses should not be fatal if consumed in moderation. If consumed in large amounts it can cause diarrhea and vomiting as well as its roots and seeds being highly poisonous - beware!
Lungwort's leaves and stems contain phenolic compounds that exert their anti-inflammatory action through its anti-oxidant activity. Rosmarinic, lithospermic, salvianolic, monardic and shimobashiric acids have an inhibitory effect on production of cyclooxygenase-2 in the body, helping prevent damage to arteries as well as providing protection against further cardiovascular disorders. Furthermore, lungwort's high mucilage content relieves colds, coughs and catarrh symptoms by soothing those suffering.
It is toxic to cats
Lungwort plants may not typically be eaten by cats, but it's important to be aware that they contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids and saponins that may be toxic if consumed; symptoms may include loss of appetite, vomiting, difficulty breathing or neurological problems in cats ingesting lungwort. If this happens to your pet it should be monitored closely while out or covered with netting to prevent your cat from eating it accidentally.
Lungwort is a hardy shade plant, suitable for most environments but not full sun or extremely hot conditions. It grows well in areas of shade such as banks or slopes as well as cottage gardens or borders and its mottled and spotted leaves are attractive; while its funnel-shaped flowers come in shades of blue, violet, pink, purple and red - an attraction much beloved by bees (particularly Anthorophora plumipes). The hairy-footed flower bee is fond of feeding on its leaves!
Lungwort is an ideal plant to add shaded areas. While it will tolerate some bright light, partial shade is ideal. Lungwort also tolerates dry conditions but cannot thrive in very sandy soil conditions. Pruning it in early spring produces great results and looks its best after pruning in general; plus it doesn't suffer from many pests or diseases - although powdery mildew and slugs might pose issues.
It is toxic to dogs
Lungwort (Pulmonaria) is an exquisite plant with distinctive spotted foliage and gently nodding flowers that makes for an eye-catching display in woodland gardens and shaded areas. Additionally, you may use lungwort in cottage gardens; just be careful to keep it out of reach from children and pets as its leaves, stems and flowers contain saponins and pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can lead to serious poisoning in cats and dogs if consumed; should your pet ingest lungwort, contact a veterinarian immediately!
Lungweed was given its name due to the striking similarity between its leaves and those found inside our lungs. These soft-haired leaves boast beautiful green hues dotted with white spots; spring flowers bring on pink or blue blooms to complete its picture. Lungweed was once used to treat lung ailments such as tuberculosis and asthma, though now more commonly utilized in herbal medicine treatments.
Lungwort contains high amounts of mucilage that helps ease breathing problems such as asthma and chronic bronchitis, as well as coughing and catarrh. You can find lungwort plants at most garden centers and nurseries; they thrive best when grown in soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH levels that is organic-rich; cool weather environments tend to work best, though hot summer days could prove challenging for this plant.
Lungwort lichen is an ideal ground cover for shaded areas. With its distinctive spotted foliage that remains attractive throughout the year and adds flair to your landscape design, you can grow lungwort in large containers if the conditions allow; but as with other lichens it may take some time before it fully develops and blooms.
It is toxic to livestock
Lungwort can be poisonous to livestock due to its numerous chemical components that may cause liver damage, vomiting, diarrhea, neurological problems and walking problems, mouth and throat irritation and cause pregnancy or breast-feeding related problems. As it contains sedative properties it should only be taken in small doses during gestation or breastfeeding periods and not directly before sleep time.
Lungwort plants are easy to care for and make an attractive ground cover in shaded areas. Their popularity among bees makes them an invaluable addition to the garden. Lungwort prefers mild temperatures in spring, with humid climates providing optimal growth conditions; during high heat periods wilt may occur; this plant typically recovers quickly when temperatures return to normal.
Pulmonaria saccharata, commonly referred to as Bethlehem lungwort, is a hardy shade plant known for its early spring bloom of blue-tinged blooms with mottled white-pink-and-purple leaves that create an eye-catching ground cover in shaded gardens. Plus, it doesn't attract powdery mildew or slugs!
Lungwort thrives in humus-rich soil with adequate drainage, neutral to slightly acidic pH levels and good drainage. Although not necessitating much fertilizer application, you may add compost at the start of Spring to promote healthy growth and blooming.