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Suffolk Lungwort

Pulmonaria obscura

Also known as Unspotted Lungwort

herbaceousβ›… part shadeπŸ’§πŸ’§ moderate water❄ Hardy: Zone 4a – Zone 8b

Climate Match for your location

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Suffolk Lungwort is a shade-loving perennial with spotted, hairy leaves and delicate pink and blue flowers in early spring. It's excellent for woodland gardens and shaded borders.

Why grow it

Suffolk Lungwort offers reliable early spring color in deep shade where many perennials struggle, with the added ornamental value of spotted foliage that extends interest through the growing season. Compared to other Pulmonaria species, it tolerates drier shade reasonably well once established, making it a practical choice for woodland understories and north-facing borders where competing plants may fail.

Watch out for

Like other lungworts, this species can be prone to powdery mildew in humid conditions with poor air circulation, though severity varies by site and season. The hairy leaves may accumulate dust and benefit from occasional overhead watering or misting to maintain appearance, rather than relying solely on drip irrigation.

Overview

Form
Mounding
Growth Rate
moderate
Size
0.75–1.25β€² tall Γ— 1.5–2β€² wide
Dormancy
deciduous
Family
Boraginaceae
medicinalpollinator nectarywildlife benefitedible

Native Range

Europe

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Harvest Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Edible Parts

leaf

Season of Interest

Spring

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Companion Planting

Plants well with