About

A clump-forming perennial to about 1m tall, with deeply cut foliage emerging pinkish-red but becoming green by early summer. Arching stems dripping with heart-shaped vivid red and white strongly contrasting flowers are produced in late spring.

About the genus

Lamprocapnos are rhizomatous perennials with attractively divided leaves and pendent, heart-shaped flowers

Growing conditions

SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity 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; site in partial shade although will tolerate sun if the soil is moist
PruningNo pruning required, tidy up plants after flowering as foliage dies back
PropagationPropagate by division in early spring or after the leaves have died down or propagate by root cuttings in winter
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free