Pulmonaria, commonly known as Lungwort, is a low-growing perennial prized by gardeners for its early spring flowers and distinctive, often silver-spotted foliage. Its appeal lies in its ability to provide vibrant color and texture in shaded garden areas where many other plants fail to thrive. However, for those gardening in areas with active wildlife, the consistent concern is whether this attractive plant can withstand browsing pressure from deer. The general premise for Pulmonaria is that it is a highly dependable choice, but the reliability of this resistance depends on specific biological and environmental factors.
The Inherent Qualities That Deter Deer
The primary reason Pulmonaria is generally ignored by deer is due to the physical texture of its leaves, which are covered in fine, bristly hairs known as indumentum. This rough or fuzzy surface texture makes the foliage irritating for a deer to mouth and digest. Deer prefer plants with smooth, tender leaves that are easier to consume quickly.
In addition to the physical barrier, the plant contains low levels of chemical compounds that contribute to an unpalatable taste. These compounds often include saponins, which can impart a slightly bitter flavor that deer find undesirable. In Pulmonaria, they combine with the rough texture to send a clear signal to the deer that the plant is not a preferred food source. This dual defense system of texture and taste makes the plant a low-priority target for foraging animals under normal circumstances.
Environmental Factors That Affect Resistance
Despite these built-in defenses, Pulmonaria’s resistance is relative to the surrounding environmental pressures. The most significant factor that can override a deer’s natural aversion is extreme hunger or scarcity of preferred food. During late winter or periods of severe drought, when tender vegetation is unavailable, deer are significantly more likely to sample plants they would typically avoid.
Areas with a high density of deer population also increase the risk of browsing, as competition forces individual animals to be less selective. Additionally, newly planted or young Pulmonaria specimens can be more vulnerable than established clumps. The initial, tender growth may lack the full bristly texture of mature leaves, making it a slightly more tempting target for an opportunistic deer. Therefore, the plant’s resistance is not a fixed trait but a dynamic result of its biology balanced against the local environment.
Practical Strategies for Protecting Pulmonaria
Gardeners facing high deer pressure can employ several strategies to bolster Pulmonaria’s natural resistance, especially during vulnerable periods. One effective method is the targeted use of commercial deer repellents, applied to new growth during early spring or high-risk seasons like winter. These repellents typically use either odor or taste to deter deer, and reapplication is necessary after heavy rain.
Strategic placement in the landscape can also reduce browsing incidence. Planting Pulmonaria closer to a house, patio, or other areas of frequent human activity discourages deer, as they generally prefer to forage in quiet, secluded spots.
A complementary approach involves planting the Lungwort alongside highly aromatic perennials, such as lavender, sage, or ornamental onion varieties. The strong, pungent scent of these nearby plants can overwhelm a deer’s sense of smell, effectively masking the Pulmonaria.
For newly planted specimens, a temporary physical barrier, such as a small cage of wire mesh or netting, provides protection until the plant is fully established. This short-term intervention is particularly useful in areas known for persistent deer activity, giving the perennial a chance to root securely. Implementing a combination of these tactics offers the most dependable defense for your Pulmonaria plants.