Lungwort (Pulmonaria longifolia 'Bertram Anderson')

Overview

Pulmonaria longifolia ‘Bertram Anderson’, commonly known as Lungwort, is a highly valued herbaceous perennial cherished primarily for its exceptional foliage. This cultivar boasts long, narrow leaves sharply tipped and densely mottled with striking gray-white spots, creating year-round visual interest in dark garden corners. While the spring bloom of violet blue flowers is lovely, it is the foliage clump, slowly spreading by rhizomes, that defines the garden appeal of Pulmonaria longifolia ‘Bertram Anderson’.

This species is ideal for gardeners seeking dependable, low-maintenance coverage in challenging environments. It thrives where many other plants struggle, particularly in the deep shade of woodlands or beneath large trees. The slow spread ensures it remains manageable, not aggressively taking over planted beds.

The historical connection to the Doctrine of Signatures, where spotted leaves suggested lung remedies, lends an interesting narrative to this tough woodland native of Western Europe. For the modern gardener, however, the benefit lies in securing vibrant texture and color in shady spots, making it an excellent substitute for hostas.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Boraginaceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-8
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 0.5-1 ft
  • Spread: 1-2 ft
• Bloom Time: April to May
• Bloom Description: Violet blue
• Sun Exposure: Part shade to full shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Plant Pulmonaria longifolia ‘Bertram Anderson’ in the spring or fall, ensuring the spot receives part shade to full shade conditions. The most crucial element for success is the soil: it must be cool, humusy, organically rich, and consistently moist but extremely well-drained. Avoid heavy clay or locations where the ground becomes waterlogged, as this leads quickly to root rot.

Watering is key to maintaining the structural integrity of the foliage, especially during dry spells. The leaves of this Lungwort scorch quickly if soils dry out. While it performs best in part shade, it can handle deeper shade, but avoid full sun entirely to prevent wilting and leaf burn.

Maintenance is generally low for this perennial. No routine fertilization is typically required if the soil starts rich in organic matter. If the clump becomes overcrowded, you can divide the rhizomatous rootstocks in the autumn. In warmer southern zones, the foliage may remain semi-evergreen, offering winter structure.

Landscape Uses

Lungwort excels as a low-spreading ground cover, perfect for mass planting beneath established deciduous trees where turf grass struggles. Its textured, spotted leaves provide excellent contrast against finer textures or broad, solid-colored leaves. It performs beautifully in woodland settings, softening edges and providing interest early in the season.

Consider planting masses of Pulmonaria longifolia ‘Bertram Anderson’ along shaded borders or defining the edge of a shaded pathway. It partners well with other shade lovers that appreciate similar moisture levels, such as ferns, hellebores, and bleeding hearts. This plant is an intriguing substitute for hosta, offering earlier blooms and less aesthetic depreciation from slugs.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

Pulmonaria longifolia, commonly known as long-leafed lungwort, is a bristly pubescent, clumping but slowly spreading, rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial of the borage family. It is most noted for its narrow, long-stalked, sharply-tipped, white-spotted, deep green basal leaves which typically grow to 12” long but to only 1-2” wide, forming a dense foliage clump which slowly spreads over time by creeping rootstocks to 24” wide. The cultivar ‘Bertram Anderson’ features especially rich deep blue flowers and intensely silver-spotted leaves, providing color just as the season begins.

Tolerances

• Deer
• Heavy Shade
• Black Walnut

Potential Problems

This plant generally avoids serious pest or disease issues, contributing to its low maintenance profile. However, watch for occasional slug or snail activity, which can chew holes in the broad leaves. Slugs are often deterred if the foliage clump is kept slightly looser, allowing for better air circulation.

Powdery mildew can occasionally appear, usually when air circulation is poor or humidity is too high relative to temperature. Ensure adequate breathing room between plants during initial placement. The most significant damage comes from environmental stress: leaves depreciate quickly in extreme heat or if the soil is allowed to dry out. In poorly drained, wet soils, root rot is a threat, so amendment with compost for drainage is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Lungwort suitable for?

Pulmonaria longifolia ‘Bertram Anderson’ is hardy across USDA Zones 3 through 8, offering a wide growing range for gardeners managing cold winters or mild southern exposures.

How large does Lungwort grow?

This herbaceous perennial typically reaches a height between 0.5 and 1 foot tall, spreading slowly to occupy an area 1 to 2 feet wide.

What sun exposure does Pulmonaria longifolia ‘Bertram Anderson’ need?

This plant requires part shade to full shade conditions; it must be shielded from direct, intense sun to prevent leaf scorch and wilting.

When does Lungwort bloom?

Lungwort offers its violet blue flowers starting in early spring, typically blooming consistently from April to May.

Conclusion

Pulmonaria longifolia ‘Bertram Anderson’ stands out as a premier choice for adding texture and cool color to shady garden areas under tough conditions. Its uniquely spotted foliage ensures its value extends far beyond the spring bloom of its deep blue flowers. Before planting, ensure your site provides the cool, moist, well-drained soil this special Lungwort demands for best performance.

Companion Planting

When selecting companions, prioritize other shade-loving plants that share the medium water requirements of Pulmonaria longifolia ‘Bertram Anderson’. Hosta varieties with smooth or blue foliage offer textural contrast without competing directly for the early spring resources this Lungwort needs. Think about layering: tall, elegant ferns or Astilbe can provide vertical elements behind the lower-growing clump of foliage from Pulmonaria longifolia ‘Bertram Anderson’.

Consider plants that emerge later in the season to take over when the Lungwort bloom fades. Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa macra) can soften edges with its mounding habit, while spring ephemerals like Trillium or certain woodland sedges will bloom and then quietly disappear as the foliage of the Lungwort becomes fully established, ensuring continuous, low-level interest.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Early Spring (Pre-Bloom): Inspect foliage for any significant winter damage, especially if the plant was not semi-evergreen. Apply a top dressing of compost or well-rotted leaf mold around the base to replenish organic matter and retain moisture. Deadhead spent flower stalks after flowering if you prefer cleaner foliage appearance, though it is not mandatory.

Summer Maintenance: Monitor moisture levels diligently. This is the critical period for preventing leaf scorch; deep, consistent watering is necessary if natural rainfall is insufficient. If leaves look tired or wilted, provide immediate water. Keep the area mulched deeply with organic material to maintain cool root temperatures.

Fall Care: If the patch of Lungwort is becoming too dense, fall is the ideal time to divide the clumps. Carefully dig up the root mass and separate sections containing both roots and shoots. Replant immediately into prepared soil. For Zone 8 gardeners, ensuring good air circulation before winter can help maintain foliage health.