How to Grow Pulmonaria 'Mrs Moon'
Pulmonaria 'Mrs Moon'
Pulmonaria saccharata 'Mrs Moon'
flowerPulmonaria 'Mrs Moon' is a charming woodland perennial prized for its attractive silver-spotted foliage and delicate pink-to-blue tubular flowers that bloom in spring. This cultivar is more ornamental than the species, featuring heavily variegated leaves that remain decorative throughout the growing season. It thrives in shaded garden settings and brings early color to woodland gardens and shade borders.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 3-8; prefers cooler climates with consistent moisture
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Growth Stages
Dormancy/Winter
November-FebruaryPlant dies back to ground level in fall; foliage dies after frost; roots remain viable underground
No active care needed; leave dead foliage in place for winter protection or cut back in late fall; do not disturb dormant crown
Spring Growth & Flowering
March-May (zone-dependent)New foliage emerges in early spring with characteristic silver spots; flower stems appear simultaneously, producing pink buds that open to blue or bi-colored blooms
Maintain consistent moisture; apply balanced fertilizer in early spring; deadhead spent flowers to extend bloom and improve appearance; watch for powdery mildew in humid conditions
Foliage Development
May-JulyAfter flowering concludes, plant focuses on leaf expansion; mature leaves show prominent silvery-white spotting and variegation; plant reaches full bushy mound form
Continue regular watering; remove any diseased or damaged leaves; foliage becomes the main ornamental feature; some afternoon wilting is normal in heat
Summer Dormancy
July-SeptemberGrowth slows or stops during hot months; foliage may decline in appearance if conditions are too warm or dry; plant essentially rests
Reduce watering frequency but maintain some moisture; provide afternoon shade and mulch to keep roots cool; avoid fertilizing; this is normal and not a sign of stress
Fall Senescence
September-NovemberLeaves gradually yellow and brown as plant prepares for dormancy; foliage dies back completely after frost
Taper watering as growth ceases; do not fertilize; allow natural die-back; no deadheading needed
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; reduce humidity; apply sulfur dust or fungicidal spray if severe; prune affected foliage
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and
Remove debris and dense ground cover where they hide; hand-pick at dawn; use beer traps or copper barriers; apply iron phosphate slug bait
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Remove and dispose of affected leaves; improve air circulation; avoid wetting foliage; apply fungicide if widespread
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Hand-pick if visible; maintain good garden hygiene; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap; rarely severe enough to require treatment
Uses
Herbal Tea & Infusions
CulinaryYoung leaves can be harvested in spring and dried for herbal tea; traditionally used to support respiratory health and soothe coughs. The mild, slightly earthy flavor pairs well with honey. [source]
Respiratory Support
MedicinalThe common name 'lungwort' derives from traditional use in supporting respiratory health, likely due to the leaf spotting resembling lung tissue (Doctrine of Signatures). Contains mucilage and silica compounds. [source]
Fresh Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdDelicate spring flower spikes are excellent for small bouquets, woodland arrangements, and cottage garden displays. The variegated foliage adds texture and interest to fresh or dried arrangements. [source]
Early Pollinator Nectar Source
WildlifeOne of the first spring flowers to bloom, providing essential nectar and pollen for bumblebees, honeybees, and other early-season pollinators emerging from dormancy. [source]
Garden Design & Ornamental Foliage
CraftPrized by gardeners for its striking silver-spotted leaves that provide season-long visual interest in shade gardens; the contrast between blooms and variegated foliage makes it a focal point in woodland plantings. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental plant, not typically harvested for culinary use. Harvest cut flowers in early spring when blooms are fully open for fresh arrangements. Cut stems at base using sharp scissors; blooms last 1-2 weeks in water with fresh flower food. Leaves can be used fresh in early spring for medicinal tea preparation.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'lungwort' comes from the Doctrine of Signatures—the spotted leaves resembled diseased lungs, so it was traditionally used to treat respiratory ailments in medieval herbalism.
- 🌱 'Mrs Moon' is named after a British gardener and is prized as superior to the species for its heavier silver variegation, making it an award-winning cultivar (winner of multiple horticultural society medals).
- 🌱 Pulmonaria flowers are pollinator magnets and exhibit a fascinating color-change mechanism: pink flowers shift to blue after pollination, likely signaling pollinators that the bloom has already been visited.
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