Pulmonaria saccharata 'Mrs. Moon' is a striking shade perennial valued for its silvery spotted foliage and clusters of funnel shaped flowers that shift from pink to blue as they mature. It creates a dynamic ground layer beneath deciduous trees and performs well even in dry shade once established. Its early blooms and textured leaves make it a standout in woodland gardens and spring borders.
Height & Spread: 10 - 12 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Early to mid spring
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, rich, well drained soils with consistent organic content
Watering Needs: Moderate; benefits from regular moisture in dry periods
Deer Resistance: Deer and rabbit resistant due to hairy foliage and mild toxicity
Native Status
Pulmonaria saccharata originates from Western Europe and is not native to North America. Its adaptability and ecological value make it suitable for naturalized woodland and shade garden settings.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Provides early nectar for honeybees, bumblebees, and mason bees emerging from dormancy in early spring.
Butterflies
- Attracts spring flying butterflies such as Mourning Cloaks and Eastern Commas that feed on the early flowers.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports hoverflies and parasitic wasps, which assist in natural pest control within shade garden ecosystems.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow full leaf rosettes to mature and provide dense ground cover.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for shaded borders, woodland paths, and beneath shrubs where its spotted foliage and color changing flowers provide year round interest.
Companion Plants
- Dryopteris erythrosora (Autumn Fern) - Coppery new fronds add warmth and soft texture beneath dappled light.
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Frosted foliage and sky blue blooms pair beautifully with Pulmonaria’s spring palette.
- Hosta 'Blue Mouse Ears' - Miniature blue toned leaves offer contrasting textures and echo cooler color tones.
- Epimedium x rubrum - Red tinged spring flowers and heart shaped foliage complement Pulmonaria in dry shade conditions.
- Heuchera 'Obsidian' - Deep purple leaves provide strong contrast to Pulmonaria’s silver mottled foliage.