Narrow-leaf lungwort (Pulmonaria longifolia, Fl. Centre France, ed. 3, 2: 460 (1857))

Family: Boraginaceae

Author: (Bastard) Boreau

Bibliography: Fl. Centre France, ed. 3, 2: 460 (1857)

Year: 1857

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Pulmonaria

Vegetable: False

Observations: W. Europe

Description

The Narrow-leaf lungwort, scientifically known as Pulmonaria longifolia, is a captivating member of the Boraginaceae family, widely recognized for its ornamental and botanical value. This perennial herb finds its origins in Western Europe and has garnered appreciation for its unique and vibrant characteristics.

Pulmonaria longifolia is distinguished by its lance-shaped leaves, which are notably elongated and slender compared to other species within the Pulmonaria genus. These leaves often display a striking pattern of white or silvery spots, presenting a visually appealing contrast against their rich green background. This distinctive foliage has made the Narrow-leaf lungwort a favored choice among garden enthusiasts and horticulturists aiming to enhance shaded garden areas.

The flowering period of Narrow-leaf lungwort adds another layer of appeal to this fascinating plant. During spring, it produces clusters of tubular flowers that transition in color, typically starting as pink or reddish buds which then mature into vibrant blue or violet blooms. This color transformation not only enhances the aesthetic charm of gardens but also attracts pollinators, contributing to the ecological health of the area.

Cultivating Pulmonaria longifolia is relatively straightforward, as it thrives in cool, shaded environments with moist, well-drained soil. It is fairly resilient, although it benefits from regular watering and protection from harsh, direct sunlight. Gardeners appreciate its low-maintenance nature and its ability to suppress weeds due to its dense foliage.

Historical botanical literature notes the plant’s medicinal applications, aligning with its common name ‘lungwort,’ which suggests a historical use in treating respiratory ailments. Although modern medicine no longer employs Pulmonaria longifolia for such purposes, its historical significance adds to its rich botanical narrative.

In summary, the Narrow-leaf lungwort, Pulmonaria longifolia, stands out as a plant of both visual beauty and intriguing botanical interest. Its elegant foliage, vibrant flowers, and ease of care make it a valuable addition to shaded garden landscapes across Western Europe and beyond.

Common Names

Deu: langblättriges lungenkraut
Eng: narrow-leaf lungwort, narrow-leaved lungwort, joseph and mary, long-leaved lungwort
Cym: llys yr ysgyfaint culddail, llysiau’r ysgyfaint, llysiau’r-ysgyfaint hirddail
En: Narrow-leaf lungwort, Narrow-leaved Lungwort, Joseph and Mary, Long-Leaved Lungwort
Ca: Llet de Santa Maria, Pulmonària de fulla estreta
Nl: Langbladig Longkruid
Fr: Pulmonaire à feuilles longues, Pulmonaire à longues feuilles
De: Langblättriges Lungenkraut
Pl: Miodunka długolistna
Cy: Llysiau‘r-ysgyfaint hirddail, Llys yr Ysgyfaint Culddail, Llysiau’r Ysgyfaint, Llysiau’r-Ysgyfaint Hirddail

Synonyms

• Pulmonaria tuberosa subsp. longifolia ((Bastard) R.C.V.Douin)
• Pulmonaria delphinensis ((Bolliger) Landolt)
• Pulmonaria cevennensis ((Bolliger) Landolt)
• Pulmonaria angustifolia var. grandifolia (Merino)
• Pulmonaria longifolia subsp. glandulosa (Bolliger)
• Pulmonaria angustifolia subsp. longifolia (P.Fourn.)
• Pulmonaria angustifolia var. parvifolia (Merino)
• Pulmonaria officinalis subsp. angustifolia (Bonnier & Layens)
• Pulmonaria longifolia subsp. delphinensis (Bolliger)
• Pulmonaria longifolia subsp. cevennensis (Bolliger)
• Pulmonaria angustifolia var. longifolia (Bastard)

Distribution

• France (native)
• Great Britain (native)
• Portugal (native)
• Spain (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Mar 19, 2022 by etienne gaide (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 9, 2022 by huy HO (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 28, 2021 by Christine Bijou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 22, 2021 by Philippe Levarlet (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 3, 2020 by Busqué Juan (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Mar 16, 2021 by Stéphane Mars (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 6, 2021 by Jean-François Baudin (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 28, 2019 by Thérèse Petit Seiller (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 9, 2022 by huy HO (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 22, 2021 by Philippe Levarlet (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Other

Taken May 15, 2013 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Mar 21, 2021 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 3, 2021 by Gaël Herve (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 15, 2013 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Mar 21, 2021 by Thierry LE COM (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Mar 29, 2022 by izu jose (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 19, 2022 by Amandine Deligey (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 26, 2022 by Barbara Deshayes (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 8, 2022 by did_21 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 16, 2021 by Stéphane Mars (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken May 18, 2018 by Jean-René Girardeau (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 15, 2013 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Apr 12, 2020 by Eric Rebsamen (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 15, 2019 by Photoflora – Corine OOSTERLEE (©)

Taken May 28, 2021 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Mar 29, 2021 by Jacques Maréchal (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 8, 2021 by Daniel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 4, 2021 by Martine Laviron (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 12, 2022 by Christiane fernandez (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 15, 2013 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7294681)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:120381-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Pulmonaria longifolia (Bastard) Boreau)

Specifications

Growth

Ph maximum: 5.5

Ph minimum: 5.0

Light: 6

Atmospheric humidity: 6

Soil nutriments: 5