Lungwort, or scientifically call, Pulmonaria, are among the first to welcome spring. The Lungwort originated in western Asia and Europe. It is believed that there are between 10 and 18 different species of Lungwort around the world.

The scientific name, Pulmonaria, comes from “Pulois”, which is Latin means “lung” and the Saxon word for plant is “wort,” Lungwort. The oval leaves of the plant were said to resemble the shape of lungs and the white spots looked is if they were diseased.

Lungwort is an herb plant and is perennial, they come back every year. They have white spots on their leaves and their flowers bloom in shades of blue, pinks, reds, violet and purple. They are small plants, usually not growing more than a foot high.

This plant is easy to care for needing only to be watered once a week in the spring and twice a week or so in the summer. They do well in the sun, but do prefer partial shade. Most Lungwort do fine in zones 4 thru 8.

Healers of the past used Lungwort to make lotions, poultices, syrups and washer for treating wheezing, coughs, ulcers, wounds and jaundice. Today it is used as a culinary and medical herb.