Dicentra spectabilis (Old-Fashioned Bleeding Heart)

“Old Fashioned” Bleeding Heart has been a garden favorite for years. It is a vigorous plant that does well in shady woodland settings that will provide successful results for even the beginning gardener. This perennial will mature to a large size and is best left undisturbed. It features graceful, soft green foliage less deeply divided than most other Dicentra species. The blooms are 1” long, rose pink, nodding heart-shaped flowers with protruding white inner petals on one side. The common name is in reference to the protruding inner petals of the heart-shaped flower, which purportedly give the appearance of a “bleeding heart.” Blooms hang in a row from long, arching stems above the foliage in mid to late spring. The foliage usually goes dormant no later than mid-summer, except in the far northern part of its range.

  • Excellent for beginner gardeners
  • Great for shady areas
  • Vigorous grower

Plant Details +

Botanical Dicentra spectabilis
Common Name bleeding heart
Family Fumariaceae
Height 18-24"
Spacing 15-18"
Hardiness Zones 4-9
Exposure Full Sun to Part Shade
Foliage Green
Flower Pink & White
Bloomtime Late Spring

Planting/Care Instructions +

Planting Instructions: May be planted in any well-drained soil. Dig a hole large enough to encompass the roots without bending or circling. Set the plant in place so the crown (part of the plant where the root meets the stem) is about 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Cover with soil to the original soil surface and water thoroughly. Easily grown in average, medium wet, well-drained soil in part shade to full shade. Prefers moist, humusy soils in part shade. Intolerant of wet soils in winter and dry soils in summer.

Pests or Diseases: No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to aphid infestations