Photo: Averater, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Red lungwort: when and how to prune
Pulmonaria rubra
Red lungwort is best pruned in April–May.
| Pruning months | April–May |
|---|---|
| Flowering | February–April |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Red lungwort: when to prune it?
In April–May, after flowering, when the old leaves look tatty after winter.
Red lungwort: how to prune it?
- Cut faded flower stems and the old leaves down to just above the ground.
- Use sharp scissors and do not cut into the new leaf rosettes.
- Water afterwards and add some compost so the fresh foliage grows quickly.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: April–May.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Red lungwort flowers in February–April, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Nearby: related pruning guides
- Lungwort
- Bethlehem sage (Pulmonaria saccharata)
- Long-leaved lungwort (Pulmonaria longifolia)
- Narrow-leaved lungwort
Plant profile: Red lungwort · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.