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Description
Pulmonaria Saccharata Mrs Moon, also known as Bethlehem Sage or Lungwort, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to Europe and is grown for its attractive foliage and delicate flowers. It has been used for medicinal purposes, but is mainly grown as an ornamental plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Pulmonaria |
Appearance
The Pulmonaria Saccharata Mrs Moon plant grows up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. It has oval-shaped leaves that are green with white spots, giving it a distinctive appearance. The leaves grow up to 6 inches long and 3 inches wide. The flowers bloom in early spring and are pink when they first open, then turn to blue-purple. The flowers are bell-shaped and grow in clusters at the tips of the stems.
Care Guide
The Pulmonaria Saccharata Mrs Moon plant is easy to care for and is suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade, and does not do well in direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pulmonaria Saccharata Mrs Moon plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid watering the leaves and provide good air circulation. If these diseases occur, treat them with a fungicide. As for pests, slugs and snails can be a problem. Use slug bait or handpick them off the plant.
Habitat
The Pulmonaria Saccharata Mrs Moon plant is native to Europe and can be found growing in woodlands, meadows, and along riverbanks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Pulmonaria Saccharata Mrs Moon plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is kept moist.
Q: Does the Pulmonaria Saccharata Mrs Moon plant attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant attracts bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How often should the Pulmonaria Saccharata Mrs Moon plant be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the Pulmonaria Saccharata Mrs Moon plant tolerate full sun?
A: No, the plant prefers partial to full shade and does not do well in direct sunlight.
Related Plants
- Pulmonaria ‘Raspberry Splash’
- Pulmonaria ‘Sissinghurst White’
- Pulmonaria ‘Trevi Fountain’
References
- “Pulmonaria saccharata ‘Mrs. Moon’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=264780&isprofile=0&basic=Pulmonaria%20saccharata
- “Pulmonaria saccharata ‘Mrs. Moon’.” Plant Finder, www.ballseed.com/PlantInfo/?phid=052300032004858
