About

Dicentra paucinervia is a tuberous perennial producing the characteristic finely divided foliage and pendent, heart-shaped flowers of the genus. A charming and delicate woodlander for a moist, partly shaded border.

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.

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toSouth Africa

Care notes

CultivationGrow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Can be grown in a container; water in dry periods
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed sown as soon as ripe or in early spring or propagate by taking softwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free