Lungworts, known scientifically as Pulmonaria, offer a striking addition to any garden, especially those areas that don’t receive abundant sunlight.
With their uniquely spotted leaves and delicate spring blossoms, lungworts can add textural and visual interest to your landscape while serving as an excellent natural deer deterrent.
Why Lungworts?
Lungworts bring a rare combination of beauty and practicality to the garden. With their compact size and deer-resistant properties, they fit seamlessly into any landscape design and relieve the stress of deer-related concerns.
Shade-Loving Plants
Not all areas of your garden will receive full sunlight, and lungworts are perfect for such shady spots. They thrive under the canopy of taller plants or trees, adding visual appeal to areas that might otherwise remain bare.
Pollinator-Friendly
Just like their sun-loving counterparts, lungworts are great for pollinators. Their springtime flowers attract a variety of pollinating insects, helping to boost the overall health and diversity of your garden ecosystem.
What Makes Them Deer-Resistant?
Lungworts contain naturally occurring compounds in their leaves that deer find unappealing. Thus, they act as a natural barrier, discouraging deer from foraging in your garden.
Deer Solution Services
If you are planning to incorporate lungworts into your garden for their deer-resistant properties, Deer Solution offers specialized services to help these plants be optimally positioned and cared for.
Planting and Care
Soil Moisture
Lungworts prefer well-drained soil but can tolerate a wide range of moisture conditions. However, they do appreciate consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
Height and Spread
Typically, lungworts grow to a height of about 12 inches with a similar spread, making them ideal for edging or as a ground cover.
Seasonal Interest
While the flowers are a definite spring highlight, the foliage of lungworts continues to provide interest throughout the growing season, with some varieties even offering autumn color change.