Lungwort

Description:

Is an herbaceous evergreen perennial rhizomatous plant.The upper surface of the leaves has tiny bumps and it is quite hairy. In spring, the plant produces small bunches of flowers. The 5-petals flowers are red or pink at first, later turn to blue-purple. The flowers contain a dye that belongs to the anthocyanins and change the color from red (acidic) to blue (alkaline). Pollination is granted by bees, bumblebees and butterflies.

Habitat:

Perhaps the most widespread plant in Europe. Moist grasslands, damp woods and hedgerow. Usually found in limestone.

Notes:

The plant has been cultivated for centuries as a medicinal herb, useful in the treatment of lung diseases and asthma.