Perennials

Bleeding heart

Bleeding Heart

Bleeding heart (Dicentra spectabilis): 90 cm high and 90 cm spread, partial shade to shade. Pink, white flowers in May-June. Zone 3; choose a soil compatible with its moisture needs.

Format

Share
Exposure
Partial to full shade
Life cycle
Hardy perennial
Hardiness
Zone 3

Discover the plant

Common nameBleeding heart
FamilyPapaveraceae
GenusBleeding heart
Speciesspectacular
TypeHardy perennial
Botanical nameBleeding Heart

For a composition in partial shade to full shade, Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis) offers flowers in shades of pink and white. Its foliage comes in shades of green, to be highlighted among different textures. The usual flowering period is May-June. At maturity, it reaches 90 cm in height and 90 cm in width, making it suitable for partial shade beds and woodland gardens.

The success of Bleeding Heart begins with its placement: partial shade to full shade, in suitable soil (kept moist, Clayey). For Bleeding Heart, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain fresh. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry out and adjust the amount according to rainfall; this exposure (partial shade to full shade) does not eliminate the need for water. Keep 90 cm as a general spacing between plants; this helps preserve their shape and access for care. The indicated hardiness level is zone 3, to be evaluated according to your garden's conditions.

Throughout the seasons, Bleeding Heart benefits from timely care: allow the foliage to yellow naturally and locate the crown to avoid damaging it during its dormant period. Some bleeding hearts go dormant during the summer; the disappearance of leaves does not justify saturating the soil. For companion planting, consider tiarella, hostas, and lungworts in varieties with similar needs. By composing around its volume of 90 cm by 90 cm, you will preserve the visibility of its blooms (May-June) and allow circulation between plants.

Cœur saignant spectabilis — Dicentra spectabilis

Planting guide

From planting to establishment.

Spacing / density 35.4 inches
Best planting time Spring after the thaw or early autumn, allowing time for the roots to establish before the severe cold sets in.
Growing method
Bleeding heart (Dicentra spectabilis): Spring after the thaw or early autumn, allowing the roots time to establish before the severe cold. For bleeding hearts, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain moist. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust waterings based on rainfall; this exposure (partial to full shade) does not eliminate the need for water. Some bleeding hearts go dormant during the summer; the disappearance of leaves does not justify saturating the soil.

Soil and care

The right care,at the right time.

Care level

Regular maintenance

Watering

For Bleeding Heart, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it must remain moist. Water at the base when the surface starts to dry, and adjust the amount according to rainfall; this exposure (partial to full shade) does not eliminate its water needs.

Soil type

Kept moist, Clayey

Fertilization

Fertilizer for flowering

Moisture

Regular cooling during growth

Seasonal care

Bleeding heart (Dicentra spectabilis): allow the foliage to yellow naturally and mark the plant's location to avoid damaging it during its dormant period. During its flowering period (May-June), also look out for damaged stems and neighboring plants that might overshadow the clump.

Container growing

A garden,within reach.

Recommended pot size

Stable, perforated container, significantly wider than the root ball; size to be adapted to the format sold and to adult development.
To grow Bleeding Heart spectabilis in a pot, choose a stable container with drainage holes, suitable for the root ball and its future size (90 cm). The substrate must remain moist; it will dry out more quickly than in the ground. Protect the container in winter depending on your climate.
Cœur saignant spectabilis — Dicentra spectabilis

Bloom and dimensions

Its place,in your garden.

Mature height

3 feet (91.5 cm)

Width / spread

3 feet (91.5 cm)

Flower color

Pink

Foliage color

Green

Foliage type

Null and void

Growth rate

Moderate

Growth habit

Erected

Fragrance

Not documented for this selection

Bloom period

May-June
Cœur saignant spectabilis — Dicentra spectabilis

Garden associations

In goodcompany.

Companion plants

Suggested plant companions for Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis): tiarella, hosta, lungwort. Choose varieties that tolerate partial to full shade and comparable moisture; allow each clump its mature space.

Plants to avoid

Around the bleeding heart (Dicentra spectabilis), be sure to avoid neighbors that would cover its leaves or strongly compete with its root ball. Light, water, and spread compatibility take precedence over a list of so-called enemy plants.

Frequently asked questions

Your questions,answered.

Where to plant Bleeding Heart spectabilis?
Provide partial to full shade and a suitable soil (kept moist, clayey). Some bleeding hearts go dormant in summer; the disappearance of leaves does not justify saturating the soil.
Where should I plant *Dicentra spectabilis*?
Expect a height and width of approximately 90 cm at maturity. Space plants about 90 cm apart, center to center, adjusting based on actual clump development. This size is suitable for use in part-shade borders and woodland gardens.
When does Bleeding Heart spectabilis bloom?
The indicated period is May-June. The flower palette is pink, white. The exact date and duration depend on the climate, the season, and when the plant is established.
How to water and care for Bleeding Heart spectabilis?
For Bleeding Heart spectabilis, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain moist. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust the amounts according to rainfall; this exposure (partial shade to shade) does not eliminate the need for water. Allow the foliage to yellow naturally and mark the plant's location to avoid damaging it during its dormant period.
Can bleeding heart spectabilis be grown in pots?
To try bleeding heart spectabilis in a pot, choose a stable container with drainage holes, suitable for the root ball and its future size (90 cm). The substrate must remain moist; it will dry out faster than in the open ground. Plan to protect the container in winter depending on your climate.

Wildlife and pets

Life,around your plants.