High Contrast Lungwort

For a dazzling display of silver-splashed foliage and early-season blooms, High Contrast Lungwort PP#12,337 (Pulmonaria 'High Contrast') is a top pick. This shade-loving perennial bursts forth in early spring with clusters of tubular flowers that shift from pink to rich blue as they mature!

But Lungwort's true charm lies in its bold, variegated leaves—deep green with an almost iridescent silver overlay—offering season-long visual appeal even after the flowers fade! Compact and spreading, High Contrast Lungwort forms a low-growing mound of lush, lance-shaped foliage, making it an excellent groundcover for shady spaces.

As autumn sets in, the semi-evergreen foliage often remains attractive, providing year-round interest in milder climates. It stays just 9 inches tall and the mounds spread to about 12-18 inches wide.

Key Features

• Stunning silver-splashed foliage offers year-round appeal
• Clusters of pink-to-blue flowers in early spring
• Compact, spreading form ideal for shade gardens
• Semi-evergreen in mild climates
• Attracts bees and hummingbirds; deer and rabbit-resistant
• Thrives in zones 4-9

Lungwort is a member of the Borage family, this woodland perennial thrives in partial to full shade, bringing color and texture to areas where other plants struggle. Highly resistant to deer and rabbits, it also attracts early-season pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.

Landscaping Uses

At just under a foot tall with a spreading habit, High Contrast Lungwort is a fantastic shade groundcover that pairs beautifully with Ferns, Hostas, and Heuchera.

• Shade garden groundcover for rich visual texture
• Edging along woodland paths and shady borders
• Mass plantings for a silver-toned foliage effect
• Pollinator-friendly addition to spring gardens
• Underplanting for shrubs and trees in dappled shade

Care and Maintenance

This herbaceous perennial is a low-maintenance delight that thrives in shady, moist environments but can tolerate some dryness once established. Hardy in USDA Planting Zones 4-9, this Lungwort adapts well to rich, moist, well-drained soil and tolerates occasional drought once established.

• Planting Time: Spring or early fall
• Sun Needs: Partial to full shade
• Soil Needs: Prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil; tolerates clay if amended
• Moisture Needs: Moderate; prefers consistently moist soil but tolerates short dry spells
• Mulch: Apply a 3-4 inch deep layer of bark mulch or leaf mold to retain moisture and improve soil
• Fertilization Needs: Light application of compost or balanced fertilizer in early spring
• Pruning Info: Trim back damaged leaves in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth
• Special Needs/Perks:
• Deer and rabbit-resistant
• Tolerates occasional drought once established
• Tolerates humidity and urban conditions
• Disease-resistant, though good airflow prevents mildew
• Division Info: Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early fall or spring for the best vigor

A Silver-Lined Shade Garden Must-Have!

Whether you need a luminous groundcover or a low-maintenance shade perennial, High Contrast Lungwort offers both beauty and function! With its unique silver foliage and bee-friendly blooms, this plant adds a much-needed pop of brightness to shaded areas.

Order now from Nature Hills and enjoy doorstep delivery at the perfect planting time for your zone!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is High Contrast Lungwort invasive?
No, Lungwort is a well-behaved perennial that spreads gradually but doesn’t take over garden beds.

Does High Contrast Lungwort die back in winter?
In colder climates, the foliage dies back completely, but in mild winters, it may stay semi-evergreen.

Can I grow Lungwort in full sun?
No, it thrives in partial to full shade. Too much sun can scorch the foliage.

Is Lungwort resistant to deer and rabbits?
Yes! Its slightly fuzzy leaves make it unappealing to browsing animals.

How do I prevent powdery mildew on Lungwort?
Plant it in a location with good airflow and avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry.