Lungwort
Pulmonaria officinale
Family: Boraginaceae
Herbaceous perennial. Native to the woods and thickets of Europe,
central and southern Russia. Ornamental and low-lying plant of ancient
ancestry, with pale purple flowers and rough, speckled leaves which resemble
lungs. This is a historical jewel. The plant is mucilagenous,
and has been used to make a tea against coughs. Does contain potentially
toxic
pyrrolizidine alkaloids, so extended use or use during pregnancy is not
recommended. Cultivation: Extra care. Sow
seeds in the summer, and expect germination the following spring.
Space plants 6 inches apart. Partial shade. Amend soil with
rotted sawdust or bark mulch. Flowers to 1 foot tall.
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