Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' (Bleeding Heart) — perennial

Overview

Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' is a perennial in the genus Dicentra, part of the Q144723 family. Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include woodland garden, shade garden and border. It is native to Pacific Northwest of North America.

About

Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' is a perennial in the genus Dicentra, commonly called Bleeding Heart, that flowers from April to June. It prefers partial shade to shade and suits moist, well‑drained rich loamy soil across acidic, neutral or alkaline pH. Rated H5 for the UK (hardy), it favours north or east aspects in sheltered positions. The plant is toxic if ingested, so site it away from places used by children or pets.

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

Originating from the Pacific Northwest of North America, Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' is a shade-oriented perennial within the Dicentra group that provides a spring display from April to June. Its cultural needs follow a simple pattern: partial shade to full shade, rich loamy soil that retains moisture without waterlogging, and a sheltered situation away from drying exposure. The cultivar is rated H5 in the UK, which corresponds to a hardy classification for most gardens. Plant into moist, well‑drained soil amended with organic matter to help retain even moisture through the growing season. A north or east aspect reduces exposure to hot afternoon sun; shelter from wind helps protect the top growth in exposed sites. Mulching around the root zone conserves moisture and moderates soil temperature. Use Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' in woodland-style or shade borders and as an understorey element where spring flowering can be appreciated before taller plants fill the space. As the foliage and any discarded plant material can be toxic if eaten, avoid placing it where children or grazing animals have access.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Dicentra

Sunlight: partial shade, shade
Soil type: well-drained, rich, loamy
Soil pH: acidic, neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture: moist
Aspect: north, east
Exposure: sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: woodland garden, shade garden, border
Native to: Pacific Northwest of North America
Toxicity: toxic if ingested

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Dicentra formosa 'Paramount'

Cultivation: Prefers cool, moist conditions with partial to full shade. Avoid hot, dry sites. Mulch to retain moisture.
Pruning: Cut back foliage after flowering or when it yellows in late summer.
Propagation: Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but slow.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Dicentra formosa 'Paramount'?

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

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

Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' prefers partial shade and shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' need?

Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including well-drained, rich and loamy. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Dicentra formosa 'Paramount'?

Cut back foliage after flowering or when it yellows in late summer.

Is Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' hardy in the UK?

Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' 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 'Paramount'?

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

Is Dicentra formosa 'Paramount' toxic?

Toxic if ingested.

More in the Dicentra genus

Browse all Dicentra →