General Culture:
Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in part shade to full shade. Prefer cool soils that are moist and humusy. Must receive constant moisture and not be allowed to dry out. Very intolerant of wet, poorly drained soils, however. Spreads very slowly by creeping roots. Divide plants in the fall.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
This clump-forming lungwort is, like many of the hostas, more valued for its attractive foliage than its flowers. Features mostly basal clumps of very long and narrow (as the species name suggests), silvery spotted leaves (up to 2' long). Drooping clusters (terminal cymes) of large, funnel-shaped, dark violet-blue flowers bloom in early spring. Grows typically to 1.5' high and spreads to 2.5' wide. A naturally occurring variety found in the Cevennes Mountains in southern France. The common name of lungwort is in reference to the supposed resemblance of the spotted leaves to a diseased lung.
Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems. Slugs and powdery mildew are occasional problems. Leaves can depreciate considerably in extremely hot weather or too much sun.
Uses:
Best grown in groups in shaded areas of the border front or woodland garden or massed as a ground cover for smaller areas. Interesting specimen plant. Foliage usually remains attractive after bloom and throughout the summer as long as plans continue to receive sufficient moisture.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2010
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