Dicentra spectabilis (Bleeding Heart) — Perennial

Overview

Dicentra spectabilis is a perennial in the genus Dicentra, part of the Q144723 family. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall. Dicentra spectabilis grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, woodland gardens and shade gardens. It is native to Northeast China and Korean peninsula.

About

Dicentra spectabilis is a perennial grown for its spring flowering display, flowering from April to June. It reaches about 0.6 m and suits sites with full sun in sandy or loamy soils that remain moist but well-drained. It is rated H7 (fully hardy) in the UK and should be handled with care as it is toxic if ingested.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lamprocapnos

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

Dicentra spectabilis is a herbaceous perennial native to northeast China and the Korean peninsula, used in gardens for its spring flowering (April to June). Plants form clumps to roughly 0.6 m and are commonly included where a seasonal spring display is required. Plant in a position with full sun in a sandy or loamy soil that holds moisture without becoming waterlogged. The species prefers soils described as moist but well-drained; establish plants at a depth that keeps crowns just at soil level and maintain even moisture through the growing season. It is rated H7 (fully hardy), so established clumps tolerate typical UK winters without extra winter protection. Dicentra spectabilis suits mixed borders, woodland garden edges and shaded garden pockets where spring interest is wanted; place it where flowering stems can be seen before taller perennials close overhead. All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, so avoid planting where children or pets might browse the foliage or stems.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Dicentra

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Dicentra spectabilis size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Height: 0.6 m
Suggested uses: Borders, Woodland gardens, Shade gardens
Native to: Northeast China, Korean peninsula
Toxicity: Toxic if ingested

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Dicentra spectabilis

Cultivation: Prefers partial shade; keep soil moist and well-drained; mulch to retain moisture
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth
Propagation: Division, Seed

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Dicentra spectabilis?

Prefers partial shade; keep soil moist and well-drained; mulch to retain moisture.

Where is the best place to plant Dicentra spectabilis?

Dicentra spectabilis prefers full sun.

What soil does Dicentra spectabilis need?

Dicentra spectabilis grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Dicentra spectabilis?

Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.

How big does Dicentra spectabilis grow?

Dicentra spectabilis reaches a height of 0.6 m.

Is Dicentra spectabilis hardy in the UK?

Dicentra spectabilis has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Dicentra spectabilis?

Division, Seed.

Is Dicentra spectabilis toxic?

Toxic if ingested.

More in the Dicentra genus

Browse all Dicentra →