It is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial which is closely related to the common lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis).

Growing to 10 cm (4 in) tall by 60 cm (24 in) wide, it has lance-shaped leaves with white confluent spots, and pink or white flowers in spring.

[2] The specific epithet saccharata means sugared, and refers to the spotted surface of the leaves.

It prefers shaded, nutrient-rich, moist, well-drained soil.

Numerous cultivars have been developed, of which the following have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit:-