Pulmonaria saccharata- ‘Mrs. Moon’, Bethlehem Sage

General Information: Spotted Mrs. Moon features showy spotted foliage that provides interest in a shady spot throughout the growing season. Dainty, nodding bell-shaped flowers create a bi-colored, floral display as the flowers mature from pink to blue. Ideal in the shade or woodland garden, this low-maintenance choice works as a groundcover as well. Tolerant of heavy shade, this ornamental features colorful leaves – blue-green foliage with interesting white spots. Flowers have a distinct charm and resemble their close relative (first cousin) Virginia bluebells. The combination of the bright two-toned flowers and interesting foliage makes this a unique choice for any shade garden.  The species is derived from the Latin saccharatus, meaning sugary, in reference to the white spots or a film similar to powdered sugar on the leaves.

Cultivation Details:  Mounding semi-evergreen, rhizomatous perennial prefers humus, cool, rich soil. It does best in soil kept evenly moist. Plants spread very slowly by creeping roots, but can be divided in fall. Not invasive. Semi–evergreen in warm climates. Tolerates heavy shade. Deer resistant and black walnut tolerant. Blooms appear April – May. Believed to have medicinal uses in the past, but is now just used as a secondary ingredient in tea. Drought-tolerant. 

Growing Requirements: Plant in full to part shade, but also can grow in sunny locations. Do not allow soil to dry out. Intolerant of wet or poorly draining soil. Prefers a deep humus-rich soil, but will grow in clay, loamy or sandy soil. Suitable for mildly acidic to neutral to basic soil.

Leaves will scorch if the area is too sunny.