Product Description
Pulmonaria 'Twinkle Toes' PPAF
Common Name: Lungwort, Bethlehem Sage.
Starting in mid-spring shortly after Hellebores are finished booming, dainty light periwinkle blue flowers cover a low, mounded habit. After the flowers fade, you can enjoy its dark green leaves that are lightly sprinkled with silver. This plant will thrive in part shade to full shade as long as you provide moisture. Pulmonaria is an underused perennial that grows well in shady gardens. It is especially attractive when planted among hostas, ferns, and brunneras. Its flowers are among the most brilliantly colored blossoms of all perennials.
Height: 12.0-14.0 Inches; Spread: 16.0-18.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 3,4,5,6,7,8,9
Flower Color: Purple shades Blue shades
Foliage Color: Variegated
Part Shade to Full Shade
Average to Consistent Water Needs
Bloomtime: Late Spring
Attracts Hummingbirds
Bee Friendly
Deer and Rabbit Resistant
Border Plant, Container, Cut Flower, Cut Foliage, Edging,
Mass Planting
Pulmonaria 'Twinkle Toes', also known as lungwort, is a charming shade perennial that was named 2022 Perennial of the Year. Its periwinkle-blue spring flowers and uniquely speckled foliage make it a delightful addition to any shade or woodland garden. The name "lungwort" comes from the historical use of the plant to treat lung ailments and the resemblance of its leaves to lungs. In late spring, dainty blue flowers cover a low mound of dark green leaves speckled with silver.
Characteristics This compact, mounding perennial typically grows 12–14 inches tall and spreads up to 18 inches wide. It features dark green foliage dotted with silver spots, which shimmer even in full shade. One of the most striking features of 'Twinkle Toes' is its flowers, which emerge pink and mature to a beautiful sky-blue. The foliage is semi-evergreen, meaning it can remain attractive throughout the year in milder climates. 'Twinkle Toes' is deer and rabbit resistant, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. It is also attractive to hummingbirds. Additionally, 'Twinkle Toes' is tolerant of black walnut, which can be helpful for gardeners dealing with those trees in their landscapes. It also boasts low flammability, making it a good choice for gardens in fire-prone areas. This plant is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution.
Ideal Growing Conditions Pulmonaria 'Twinkle Toes' thrives in shady spots with moist, well-drained soil. It prefers cool, organically rich soils that are kept consistently moist. For optimal growth, a soil pH of 7–8 is recommended. While it can tolerate some morning sun, it needs afternoon shade to avoid leaf scorch.
- Soil Type 'Twinkle Toes' prefers a highly organic, moisture-retentive soil. Dry conditions can lead to powdery mildew and leaf scorch. Amending the soil with compost or other organic matter can help improve soil structure and drainage.
- Sunlight Requirements This plant thrives in full or partial shade. It can tolerate morning sun but needs afternoon shade to avoid leaf scorching.
- Watering Needs 'Twinkle Toes' prefers consistently moist soil. Although it is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it will do best with consistent moisture. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Care and Maintenance
- Pruning To keep your 'Twinkle Toes' looking its best, remove flower stems immediately after bloom. You can also cut the plant back hard after blooming to rejuvenate the leaves. In the spring, clean up the plant by removing old or damaged foliage.
- Fertilizing Fertilizing is not typically required unless the soil is lacking nutrients. If needed, spread compost manure after flowering is complete. You can also apply a balanced fertilizer with micronutrients.
- Pest Control Lungwort is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and slug damage. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If powdery mildew appears, treat with a fungicide. Slugs can be controlled with various methods, such as slug bait or traps.
Pulmonaria 'Twinkle Toes' is a standout variety with its captivating, color-changing flowers that transition from pink to blue and its silver-speckled foliage that adds a touch of magic to shade gardens. This versatile perennial thrives in various settings, from woodland gardens to container plantings, and its low-maintenance nature makes it a joy for gardeners of all levels. With its tolerance to black walnut and low flammability, 'Twinkle Toes' offers unique advantages for gardeners facing specific landscape challenges. By following the simple care tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that this delightful plant flourishes and brings beauty to your garden for years to come.
Thirty (30) plants per flat (or tray). Approximate Plug Measurements: 3 inches deep x 2 inches wide.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
