As an experienced gardening and landscaping expert, I can confidently say that lungwort plants, also known as Pulmonaria, can tolerate frost to some extent. However, it is important to note that lungwort plants are native to cold climates and are well-adapted to withstand freezing temperatures.
In general, lungwort plants are hardy perennials that can survive in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8. These plants have a strong resistance to cold weather and can tolerate frost without major damage. In fact, some varieties of lungwort, such as Pulmonaria angustifolia, are known to thrive in alpine regions with harsh winter conditions.
Lungwort plants have a unique ability to go dormant during winter months. As the temperatures drop and frost sets in, the foliage of lungwort plants will naturally die back. This is a normal part of their growth cycle and should not be a cause for concern.
When it comes to pruning lungwort plants in the fall, there are a few different approaches you can take. Some gardeners prefer to wait until the first frost kills the foliage before cutting back the growth. This allows the plant to fully utilize its energy reserves and prepare for winter dormancy. Additionally, the dead foliage can provide some protection to the crown of the plant during cold spells.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tidier appearance in your garden, you can choose to preemptively trim the lungwort plants in the fall. By cutting back the growth to ground level, you can remove any unsightly or damaged foliage before winter sets in. This can also help prevent the spread of diseases or pests that may have taken hold during the growing season.
Personally, I have found that cutting back lungwort plants in the fall can be beneficial for their overall health and appearance. By removing the old foliage, you create a clean slate for new growth to emerge in the spring. This can result in a more vigorous and attractive plant in the following year.
Lungwort plants can tolerate frost and are well-suited to cold climates. They naturally go dormant during winter months, and their foliage will die back after the first frost. Whether you choose to preemptively trim the growth or wait until the frost kills the foliage is a matter of personal preference. Either way, lungwort plants are resilient and will bounce back with new growth in the spring.
