Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees' (bleeding heart 'Langtrees') — perennial

Overview

Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees' is a perennial in the genus Dicentra, part of the Q144723 family. Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates well-drained and humus-rich soils and acidic and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include woodland garden, shade garden and borders. It is native to Pacific Northwest of North America.

About

Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees' is a perennial bleeding heart valued in woodland and shade plantings. It favours partial shade to deep shade and performs best in moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil of acidic to neutral pH. The cultivar carries a UK hardiness rating of H5 (hardy). All parts cause stomach ache if ingested and the foliage may aggravate skin allergies, so wear gloves when handling.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dicentra formosa

About the genus

Dicentra, known collectively as the bleeding-hearts, is a genus containing eight species of herbaceous flowering perennial plants with unique, "heart"-shaped flowers and finely divided foliage. The species are, primarily, native to North America, although several are found in temperate East Asia.

Wikipedia contributors, "Dicentra", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dicentra

In the garden

A Pacific Northwest native, Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees' is a shade-adapted perennial commonly used where light levels are low and soil remains damp. It suits woodland gardens, shaded borders and other parts of the garden where sun is limited. Flowering occurs from April to June. Plant in partial shade or shade into a humus-rich, well-drained soil that retains moisture; the species prefers acidic to neutral conditions. Keep soil consistently moist rather than drying out, and avoid very alkaline or bone-dry spots. The cultivar holds a UK rating of H5 (hardy), so it can be relied on through ordinary UK winters when sited in suitable sheltered, shaded positions. Place groups in the shade border or beneath trees where its spring flowering will be seen close to eye level; it works well in the layered planting of a woodland bed. Remember that all parts can cause stomach ache if eaten and that the foliage may provoke skin allergies, so wear gloves and other protective equipment when lifting, dividing or deadheading.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Dicentra

Sunlight: partial shade, shade
Soil type: well-drained, humus-rich
Soil pH: acidic, neutral
Soil moisture: moist
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: woodland garden, shade garden, borders
Native to: Pacific Northwest of North America
Toxicity: All parts cause stomach ache if ingested, the foliage may aggravate skin allergies. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees'

Cultivation: Prefers cool, moist conditions with partial to full shade. Avoid direct hot sun. Mulch to retain moisture.
Pruning: Remove dead or damaged foliage after flowering to encourage fresh growth.
Propagation: Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation is possible but slow.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees'?

Prefers cool, moist conditions with partial to full shade. Avoid direct hot sun. Mulch to retain moisture.

Where is the best place to plant Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees'?

Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees' prefers partial shade and shade.

What soil does Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees' need?

Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees' grows best in well-drained and humus-rich soil. It prefers acidic and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees'?

Remove dead or damaged foliage after flowering to encourage fresh growth.

Is Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees' hardy in the UK?

Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees'?

Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation is possible but slow.

Is Dicentra formosa 'Langtrees' toxic?

All parts cause stomach ache if ingested, the foliage may aggravate skin allergies. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.

More in the Dicentra genus

Browse all Dicentra →