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Northwest Blooms · Perennials

Pulmonaria angustifolia 'Blue Ensign'

Blue Ensign Lungwort

Pulmonaria angustifolia 'Blue Ensign'
Family
Boraginaceae
Height
12 to 18 inches
Width
18 to 24 inches
Flower color
Intense cobalt blue flowers held above the foliage
Foliage color
Narrow deep green leaves forming a dense clump
Bloom time
Early to mid spring
Light
Partial shade to full shade
Water
Even moisture
Maintenance
Low; cut back tired foliage after flowering to promote fresh new growth
Growing zone
USDA zones 4 to 8
Wildlife
Attracts bees and other early season pollinators

About this plant

Pulmonaria angustifolia 'Blue Ensign' forms low clumps of narrow, deep green leaves with a smooth surface and elongated shape that creates a tidy, refined mound. In early to mid spring, upright stems carry clusters of intense cobalt blue flowers that open above the foliage, providing clear color at a time when many shade plantings are just emerging.

The species is native to central and eastern Europe, where it grows in open woodland and meadow margins. In garden settings, 'Blue Ensign' suits shaded borders, woodland paths, and underplanting beneath deciduous shrubs, offering early nectar and dependable spring presence.

Works well in

Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens

Companion plants

Astilbes · Heucheras · Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers · Epimediums

Design tip

The early flowers arrive when the garden is still waking up, so give it a spot you pass often in spring. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.