About
Dicentra formosa, the western bleeding heart, is a wide-spreading, rhizomatous perennial with abundant, lobed, fresh-green leaves to 45 cm long, glaucous beneath. Branching, arching stems carry pendulous, pink flowers opening from deep rose-pink buds in late spring and early summer. A reliable and ornamental ground-cover for moist, shaded or partly shaded borders.
About the genus
Dicentra, the bleeding hearts, are rhizomatous or tuberous perennials with attractively divided or fern-like leaves and pendent, heart-shaped or pouched flowers, usually in pink, white, red or yellow, in arching panicles or racemes in spring and early summer. Excellent woodland and shade-tolerant garden plants.
Plant details
Suggested usesBedding, containers, hanging baskets.
Care notes
CultivationPlant out after last frost in fertile, well-drained soil.
PruningDeadhead regularly to prolong flowering.
PropagationGrow from seed sown in spring.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.