About
A compact herbaceous perennial to 40cm tall, with delicately cut leaves and arching sprays of red flowers from late spring.
About the genus
Dicentra can be rhizomatous or tuberous perennials with attractively divided leaves and pendent, heart-shaped flowers, usually in arching panicles or racemes
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectWest-facing, North-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
ToxicityAll parts cause stomach ache if ingested, the foliage may aggravate skin allergies. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist, fertile, humus-rich soil, preferably neutral or slightly alkaline. Does best in partial shade although will tolerate sunnier spot if the soil is moist
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division in early spring or after the leaves have died down
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free