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.”
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Pulmonaria longifolia, the narrow-leaved lungwort, is a semi-evergreen clump-forming herbaceous perennial plant, native to western Europe, including Britain, France, Spain, Portugal. It grows in semi-shaded habitats, such as woodland and scrub, to 2000 m above sea level.
The stems are upright, 20–40 cm (rarely to 60 cm), not scaly at base, covered with bristly and some glandular hairs. The basal leaves are up to 40–60 centimeters (16–24 in) long and 6 centimeters (2.4 in) wide, narrowly lanceolate, gradually narrowed into a stalk, upper surface usually spotted white or pale green. The stem leaves are lanceolate or oval-lanceolate, stalkless, half-clasping the stem.
The flowers are funnel-shaped, carried in short hairy cymes in spring. The corolla is 8–12 mm long, pink turning blue or violet. The fruit is a nutlet to 4 millimeters (0.16 in) long and 3 millimeters (0.12 in) broad. Chromosomes 2n=14.
Three subspecies have been described, but are not accepted as distinct by the Flora Europaea.
In the New Forest in England, P. longifolia shares its habitat with wild daffodil (Narcissus pseudonarcissus), bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta), wood-sorrel (Oxalis acetosella), bastard balm (Melittis melissophyllum), wood anemone (Anemone nemorosa), columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris).
In the garden, P. longifolia is hardy to hardiness zone 5. It prefers light shade but tolerates sun better than most pulmonarias, and will not do well in heavy shade. Can be grown on very heavy clay soil.
The following cultivars are available:
- ‘Ankum’ (syn. ‘Coen Jansen’) – a compact mound-forming plant with small, bright violet-blue flowers, and narrow, very silvery leaves with wavy margins.
- ‘Bertram Anderson’ – with smallish vivid blue flowers, and long, narrow, silver-spotted leaves.
- ‘Dordogne’ – with blue flowers carried on upright stems, large lanceolate leaves, spotted silver-white.
Other Pulmonaria cultivars related to this species include ‘Merlin’, ‘Roy Davidson’, ‘Weetwood Blue’.
II. How to Grow and Care
Narrow-leaved lungwort is relatively undemanding, thriving in partial shade and requiring well-drained, humus-rich soil. Moisture is crucial, particularly during dry spells, but be cautious of waterlogging which can damage the plant. Notably, narrow-leaved lungwort benefits from deadheading to promote continued blooming and to maintain a tidy appearance. Its ease of care makes it a suitable choice for both novice and seasoned gardeners.
Sunlight
Narrow-leaved lungwort thrives in partial sun, receiving filtered sunlight that dapples the leaves with a light kiss of radiance. Ideally, the mornings accentuate narrow-leaved lungwort’s vitality, whereas the afternoons are blanketed in protective partial shade to safeguard from harsh rays. In nature’s spectrum, narrow-leaved lungwort is adaptable, tolerating full shade, accommodating lower light conditions with grace. Deviating from the soft luminance of partial sun, narrow-leaved lungwort remains robust but may exhibit subdued flowering and less vigorous foliage.
Adaptive traits ensure its resilience; with less optimal light, leaves may deepen in hue, enhancing photosynthesis. Outdoors, narrow-leaved lungwort flourishes under the shelter of taller plants or on the forest floor, basking in the tranquil ambiance of dappled enlightenment.
Watering
Thriving in the understory of its native woodlands, narrow-leaved lungwort has adapted to environments with consistent moisture. It is drought-sensitive and favors a stable humidity level, reflecting its preference for the damp forest floor. Watering every week will maintain its lush foliage. As an herbaceous perennial commonly grown indoors due to its attractive leaves and flowers, narrow-leaved lungwort benefits significantly from higher humidity levels that mimic its natural habitat, especially during its active growing season.
Soil
Narrow-leaved Lungwort is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soils, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils.
Fertilizing
For healthy growth and vibrant blooms, fertilize narrow-leaved lungwort in spring with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 mix, at the onset of active growth. Apply quarterly, diluting to half-strength to prevent root burn. In growth stages, increase frequency to support energy needs during flowering. Avoid over-fertilization; observe plant response and adjust accordingly. Incorporating compost can bolster soil nutrition. Implement slow-release granules for sustained feeding. Wear gloves, keep fertilizer from foliage, and water soil post-application for optimal nutrient absorption.
Propagation
Narrow-leaved lungwort is a herbaceous perennial that thrives in partially shaded areas with moist, fertile soil. The most effective way to propagate this plant is by division, ensuring each section has a healthy portion of roots. Divide clumps in early spring just as growth starts, or in autumn as the plant goes dormant. This method not only yields new plants efficiently but also rejuvenates the parent plant, enhancing its vigor and flowering potential. Careful handling during the division will lead to a higher success rate in establishment and growth.
Transplanting
The perfect time to transplant narrow-leaved lungwort is between late summer and early fall (S3-S4), it facilitates robust root development before winter. Choose a part-shade location for healthier growth. Mind that narrow-leaved lungwort is a resilient perennial, making the transplanting process fairly forgiving.
III. Uses and Benefits
- Ornamental uses
Narrow-leaved Lungwort is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens. It is a low-maintenance plant that can grow in shady areas and can be used to add color to a garden. It is also a useful plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden.
Narrow-leaved Lungwort is also a useful indicator plant for assessing air quality. The plant is sensitive to air pollution and can develop brown spots on its leaves in the presence of high levels of pollutants such as sulfur dioxide.
- Medicinal uses
In addition to its potential health benefits, Narrow-leaved Lungwort has also been used in culinary applications. The leaves of the plant have a slightly bitter taste and can be used in salads, soups, and stews. The plant has also been used as a natural dye, with the leaves producing a green dye and the flowers producing a pink or purple dye.
Narrow-leaved Lungwort has a long history of use in traditional medicine. In medieval Europe, the plant was believed to have magical properties and was used to treat a range of ailments, including lung diseases, digestive disorders, and wounds. In traditional Chinese medicine, the plant is known as ‘Bei Sha Shen’ and is used to treat respiratory conditions such as cough and bronchitis.
The plant has also been used in folk medicine to treat wounds and skin conditions. The leaves of the plant contain allantoin, a compound that promotes skin cell regeneration and can help to soothe irritated skin. The plant has also been used topically to treat burns and insect bites.
- Other uses
In addition to its traditional uses, Narrow-leaved Lungwort has also been studied for its potential as a natural pesticide. The plant contains compounds called pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which have insecticidal properties. Researchers have found that the plant can be used to control insect pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites.