Pulmonaria rubra

The lungwort is named after its mottled leaves, which were supposed to resemble lungs. Different varieties produce different leaf markings, which look their best in mid spring when putting on fresh growth after flowering. They make excellent ground-cover plants, especially for shady borders. Funnel-shaped flowers are borne in shades of blue, violet, pink, purple, red and white. They're extremely attractive to bees, particularly the hairy footed flower bee, Anthophora plumipes.

Pulmonaria rubra is one of the first lungworts to flower, with deep red blooms appearing in mid- to late winter. For best results grow in moist but well-drained soil, in sun to partial shade. Remove old leaves after flowering.