Overview
Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' is a clump forming perennial in the genus Lamprocapnos, part of the Papaveraceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall. Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include shade garden, woodland garden and borders. It is native to Northeast China and Korean peninsula.
About
Lamprocapnos spectabilis, commonly known as bleeding heart or Asian bleeding heart, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the fumitory subfamily (Fumarioideae) of the Papaveraceae. It is native to Northeast China and the Korean peninsula; however, it has been introduced by humans into a larger area of Northeast Asia, including parts of Siberia, Russia and Japan.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lamprocapnos
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Lamprocapnos
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- Partial shade
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.6 m
- Suggested uses
- Shade garden, woodland garden, borders
- Native to
- Northeast China, Korean peninsula
- Toxicity
- Toxic if ingested
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba'
- Cultivation
- Prefers cool, moist conditions; avoid hot afternoon sun; mulch to retain moisture
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth
- Propagation
- Division in spring or autumn, seed
- Pest resistance
- Slugs, Snails
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba'?
Prefers cool, moist conditions; avoid hot afternoon sun; mulch to retain moisture.
Where is the best place to plant Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba'?
Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' need?
Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba'?
Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.
How big does Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' grow?
Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' reaches a height of 0.6 m.
Is Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' hardy in the UK?
Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' 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 'Alba'?
Division in spring or autumn, seed.
Is Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' toxic?
Toxic if ingested.
