Dicentra spectabilis/Bleeding Heart
Easy, old-fashioned and much-loved, with flowers that look like surprisingly like hearts. Dies back to the ground after flowering (to emerge again the following spring). From China, Korea, Siberia. Brought to US from England in mid-1800s.
Details
- Shade-lover best protected from severe mid-day and afternoon sun. In cooler climates can take full sun.
- To 2 feet.
- Hardy to Zones 3-9.
- Happiest with rich, moist, well drained soil.
Care
- The foliage lasts longer if the plant is given plenty of water and cool conditions. (In northern gardens, it holds up until late summer).
- Can be divided in late summer when the foliage has died down.
- Handle carefully so that its brittle roots don't break off.
- Mulch well, water.
- Division not required.
Location Matters
My test garden is in the Washington, D.C. area, Zone 7A. Have any comments you'd like to see included about growing this plant? Send 'em along.
Good Information in Print
- The Well Tended Perennial Garden
by Tracy DiSabato-Aust is the best-selling book on how to make your perennials healthier and better-looking. - Encyclopedia of Perennials
by Graham Rice is exhaustive and an outstanding general resource on the subject. - The Complete Flower Gardener
by Cutler and Ellis is another source I consult regularly.