Dicentra spectabilis (Bleeding Heart)

One of the most elegant of perennials, Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis) is a graceful herbaceous perennial boasting gracefully arching stems studded with lockets of pink flowers, whose hearts are no doubt bleeding, adorned with protruding white petals. They hang above the attractive foliage of soft green, divided leaves. Blooming for 4-6 weeks in late spring to early summer, it tends to decline or disappear in mid-summer. However, if it is kept well-watered during the spring, dormancy may be delayed until late summer or early fall. Great for shaded borders or woodland gardens, plant this old garden favorite among other perennials such as hosta, astilbe, pulmonaria, or ferns to fill in the space left by its foliage when going dormant.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding merits
• Grows up to 30-36 in. tall and wide (75-90 cm).
• Thrives in part shade and is easily grown in fertile, humus-rich, preferably neutral or slightly alkaline, moist but well-drained soils. It is full shade tolerant, but be aware that too much shade will result in few flowers. It can be grown in full sun in the coolest part of its range, provided the soil is kept consistently moist.
• Great for shaded borders or woodland gardens, plant it among other perennials such as hosta, astilbe, pulmonaria, or ferns to fill in the space left by its foliage when going dormant. Great as fresh cut flowers: the racemes make delightful additions to fresh bouquets, lasting about 2 weeks in a vase.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Deer and rabbit resistant
• Propagate by division in early spring or after the leaves have died down. Propagate by root cuttings in winter.
• If ingested, all parts may cause stomach upset, and the foliage may aggravate skin allergies. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Bleeding Heart plants are toxic not only to humans but to animals as well. Although aesthetically pleasing, this plant contains soquinoline alkaloids. Alkaloids negatively affect animals, most commonly cattle, sheep, and dogs.
• Native to Siberia, northern China, Korea, and Japan.