The Bleeding Heart Plant
One of the most attractive perennial plants for a woodland or cottage garden is the Bleeding Heart Plant, Lamprocapnos spectabilis syn Dicentra spectabilis.
Previously known as Dicentra spectabilis, Lamprocapnos spectabilis is a spring flowering plant that is grown for the heart shaped flowers that hang beneath long arching stems. Being a perennial they will reappear each year, and over time these beautiful plants get bigger and better. You can grow them in the garden, or in containers and you should plant them in a position where the soil is moist and they get some protection from the afternoon sun.
Lamprocapnos spectabilis – Care and Maintenance
Choose a position in part shade where the plant will not be disturbed, dig the soil over well and add some well rotted compost and aged cow manure. If you are growing these plants in pots or containers provide similar conditions.
Steps
- After preparing the soil, you are ready to plant your Bleeding Heart plant.
- Plant at the same depth it was in the container.
- Water in well with a liquid seaweed fertiliser.
- Mark the position so you do not disturb the roots while the plant is dormant.
- Mulch around the plant with well rotted compost and some aged cow manure. Use an organic mulch that breaks down quickly.
- In spring, as the foliage first appears, fertilise with a liquid fish fertiliser or other organic fertiliser.
- Keep moist through spring and summer if rainfall is not adequate.
- Let the foliage die right back and then apply a light organic mulch again.
Sun/Light
Partial shade or dappled shade is recommended. Dicentra will not flower well in deep shade, we suggest morning sun a light afternoon shade.
Soil or Potting Mix
A free draining, humus rich, slightly acidic to neutral soil is best. Drainage is important to prevent root problems. Recommended pH level is 6.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
You can grow Bleeding Heart Plants in containers, use a deep wide container and a good quality potting mix. You will need to water regularly during the growing season as pots tend to dry out quickly.
Mulch
Dicentras have a fairly shallow, fibrous roots root system that spread horizontally from a central crown. A good layer of mulch around the plant in early spring will help keep the root system moist and cool.
Pruning – Winter Care and Dividing
After Flowering: Once the flowers fade, prune back the spent flower stems to the ground. This will encourage new growth and keep the plant looking tidy.
As the foliage dies back : Cut back the foliage to the ground after it has yellowed. This helps prepare the plant for winter dormancy.
Dividing: Although you can leave Bleeding hart plants in the one position for many years they do benefit from dividing. If the plant becomes crowded, it can be divided in early spring or fall/autum to rejuvenate the growth.
Uses and Landscaping Ideas
- This is an ideal plant for lightly shaded borders or woodland gardens, the flowers are very attractive and the ferny foliage prolongs the season of interest.
- Perfect for planting alongside other shade-loving perennials or hostas
- Attractive for adding texture and color under trees or in partially shaded garden beds
- Can be used in container plantings in courtyards or other shaded areas
Tolerances
Lamprocapnos spectabilis (Dicentras) will tolerate light frost, but but not heavy frosts or winter freezes. Grows best in regions where winters are not too severe.
Drought tolerance is low, to moderate. It needs consistent moisture during the growing season, and does not fare well in drought conditions or very dry soils. It will require supplementry watering during dry spells.
Toxicity to pets : Lamprocapnos spectabilis is regarded as toxic to pets including cats and dogs particularly if ingested. It contains alkaloids that can cause nausea, vomiting, or even more severe symptoms in animals. Keep out of reach of curious pets.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name: Lamprocapnos spectabilis (syn.Dicentra spectabilis)
- Common Name: Bleeding Heart.
- Family – Papaveraceae (Poppy Family)
- Origins: Native to East Asia, specifically China, Korea, Japan, and Siberia.
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial.
- Climate Zones : Suitable for temperate regions, including parts of Australia, USA, and UK. USDA Zones 3-9
- Position: Dappled shade to afternoon shade.
- Soil : Humus rich, moist, and well drained.
- Height: To around 1 metre, often less.
- Spread: To around .5 metre in an established clump.
- Flowers: Pink with white heart shaped flowers.
- Flowering time: Spring to early summer.
- Foliage : Ferny and mid green.
- Frost tolerant: Yes
- Drought tolerant: No
Bleeding Hearts Plants are available for sale from the following nurseries
Large variety of Epimediums, Woodland plants and Herbaceous perennials
Mail order or nursery. We do not send to Tasmania or WA
www.cloverhillrareplants.com
'Sylvan Vale' 375 Olinda Creek Rd, Kalorama, VIC.3766
Including a large range of Rare and unusual bulbs, corms and perennials
www.tonkinsbulbs.com.au
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au
125 Palmer Rd Jindivick 3818
Open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 4pm
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.muskersbroughtonhall.com.au
PO Box 7040 Leura NSW 2780
Rare woodland plants, Trilliums Epimediums, Arisaemas, plus much more.www.lynnsrareplants.com.au