The lungwort, so called because the mottled leaves were supposed to resemble lungs, and as such, using the Doctrine of Signitures method of medicine, the species was used to treat lung-related ailments. Different varieties produce a range of leaf markings, which look their best when putting on fresh growth after the spring flowering and are therefore a great ground cover plant. Funnel-shaped flowers with open lobes are produced in shades of blue, violet, pink, purple, red and white are a good early food source for bees.

Pulmonaria 'Roy Davison' has long slender pointed leaves, mid green with silver spots. Nodding pale blue or violet flowers emerge from pink buds and flower over a long season. More tolerant of heat and drought than many species.