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Perennial rhizome
Papaveraceae
Flowering shade perennial
Bleeding Heart
Lamprocapnos spectabilis
Product code : VAN-336-220-01
One bleeding-heart rhizome forms a graceful 60 to 80 cm perennial hardy in Zone 3. In spring, arching stems carry deep pink heart-shaped flowers tipped white above finely divided fresh-green foliage. Plant Lamprocapnos spectabilis in partial shade in rich, humus-filled, fresh, drained soil. The clump suits woodlands, shaded borders, and romantic beds. After flowering, allow leaves to yellow naturally before possible summer dormancy. Every part is toxic if eaten; handle the crown with gloves and keep divided pieces away from children and pets. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged. Morning light and afternoon shade protect its delicate leaves.
- Quantity
- 1 rhizome
- Exposure
- Partial shade to bright shade
- Life cycle
- Deciduous herbaceous perennial
- Hardiness
- Zone 3
Discover the plant
Common nameBleeding heart
FamilyPapaveraceae
GenusLamprocapnos
Speciesspectabilis
TypePerennial rhizome
Botanical nameLamprocapnos spectabilis
Bleeding heart (Lamprocapnos spectabilis) is an emblematic Asian perennial still widely sold under the synonym Dicentra spectabilis. In spring, flexible arching stems suspend rows of deep pink heart-shaped flowers, each ending in a delicate white tip. Fresh green foliage divided into lobes builds a broad clump 60 to 80 cm tall and approximately 60 cm wide. The Van Noort package contains one rhizome. Hardy in Zone 3, this plant returns reliably in shaded Quebec gardens when its crown rests in rich, fresh, freely drained soil and receives protection from intense afternoon heat.
Plant the rhizome in spring as soon as soil can be worked, setting the crown about 3 to 5 cm below the surface and leaving 60 cm around the future clump. Choose partial shade or bright shade, ideally with morning sun and protection from afternoon heat. Loosen the ground, incorporate mature compost, and water after planting. Maintain even freshness afterward without saturating roots. Light shredded-leaf mulch conserves moisture. Let foliage yellow naturally after flowering; summer dormancy is normal, especially when weather becomes hot or dry. Mark the resting crown so later garden work never damages it.
Use bleeding heart in a managed woodland, fresh border, or romantic bed where its arching stems can be viewed closely. Pair it with hostas, ferns, heucheras, lungworts, and astilbes whose leaves fill the space when the clump rests. Spring flowers receive visits from bees and sometimes hummingbirds, but every plant part is toxic if eaten and sap may irritate skin. Wear gloves for division. In autumn, mark its position, add a little compost, and avoid cultivating deeply around the dormant crown. Keep children and pets away from cut pieces and dispose of trimmings safely rather than composting them where animals forage.
Sowing guide
It all startswith a seed.
Sowing depth
Crown 3 to 5 cm (1 to 2 in) deep
Spacing / density
60 cm (24 in)
Sowing period
April to May, once soil is workable
Propagation
Careful crown division in spring or after dormancy
Growing method
On arrival, keep the rhizome cool and plant it promptly. Choose partial shade where morning light reaches the clump without scorching afternoon heat. Loosen soil to 30 cm, mix in mature compost, and correct slow drainage. Spread roots without bending them, set the crown 3 to 5 cm below the surface, and leave 60 cm from neighbours. Close gently, firm by hand, and water deeply. Maintain even freshness afterward without saturation. Add light mulch that never covers young shoots. Remove faded stems when seed is not wanted. Let every green leaf feed the crown until completely yellow. Mark the dormant position and stop deep cultivation there. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged. Morning light and afternoon shade protect its delicate leaves. Light mulch limits evaporation while allowing air to circulate around the crown. Arching stems carry rows of pink heart-shaped flowers tipped with white. After flowering, foliage may yellow and disappear naturally during summer. Companion perennials then fill the space without disturbing dormant roots. This plant contains irritating compounds and must never be eaten. In Quebec, its hardiness supports reliable return when drainage remains effective.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Soil pH
Neutral to slightly alkaline
Minimum temperature
-40°C (-40°F)
Care level
Easy to moderate
Watering
Water deeply after planting and whenever the upper centimetres of soil begin drying during growth and flowering. Maintain even freshness without soaking the crown. Light mulch reduces fluctuations. As foliage yellows and dormancy begins, space applications farther apart while preventing prolonged extreme dryness. Always water at soil level rather than over stems, and never leave full saucers beneath containers. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged.
Soil type
Rich, humus-filled, loose, fresh, freely drained soil is ideal, preferably loam amended with leaf compost. The crown appreciates even spring moisture but suffers in heavy ground that holds water. On compact clay, raise the bed slightly and incorporate structured organic matter. Avoid hot sites, highly competitive roots, and hollows where snowmelt remains for long periods. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged.
Fertilization
In early spring, spread a thin layer of mature compost around the clump without burying shoots. A small amount of balanced slow-release fertilizer may supplement poor soil. Avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas that produce soft vulnerable stems. No feeding is needed after foliage yellows. Renew compost in autumn instead to support soil structure and biological life. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged.
Moisture
Moderate even soil moisture supports strong stems and delays summer decline. Air circulation must nevertheless remain good around foliage to limit spotting and rot. Avoid standing water, compact mulch, and late watering over leaves. During dormancy, retain only light freshness and protect the crown from accumulated rainfall or snowmelt. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged.
Seasonal care
In spring, gently pull mulch back, add compost, and protect young shoots from slugs. Water when rainfall does not keep soil fresh. During bloom, remove only damaged stems and monitor aphids without treating visited flowers. After flowering, cut faded stalks when seedlings are unwanted, but retain every green leaf. In summer, let foliage yellow and disappear naturally; reduce water and mark the dormant crown. Nearby hostas and ferns will cover the space. In autumn, clear dry debris, verify drainage, add a thin compost layer, and replace light mulch. In winter, never pile salted or icy walkway snow over the plant. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged. Morning light and afternoon shade protect its delicate leaves. Light mulch limits evaporation while allowing air to circulate around the crown. Arching stems carry rows of pink heart-shaped flowers tipped with white. After flowering, foliage may yellow and disappear naturally during summer. Companion perennials then fill the space without disturbing dormant roots. This plant contains irritating compounds and must never be eaten. In Quebec, its hardiness supports reliable return when drainage remains effective. A spring top-dressing of mature compost generally sustains the clump. Slugs and aphids are best managed through observation and targeted action. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged. Morning light and afternoon shade protect its delicate leaves.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
40 cm (16 in) wide and deep
Choose a sturdy container 40 cm wide and deep with several holes. Fill it with rich potting mix amended with compost and drainage material. Spread roots, set the crown 3 to 5 cm below the surface, and leave room for clump development. Place the pot in partial shade protected from hot sun. Water deeply, then let the surface begin drying before the next application; always empty the saucer. Feed lightly in spring and apply thin mulch. After flowering, let foliage yellow. In Quebec, container roots face deeper cold: insulate the sides, move the pot beside a sheltered wall, or temporarily sink it in a drained site. Never keep the plant in a warm room during winter. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged. Morning light and afternoon shade protect its delicate leaves. Light mulch limits evaporation while allowing air to circulate around the crown. Arching stems carry rows of pink heart-shaped flowers tipped with white. After flowering, foliage may yellow and disappear naturally during summer. Companion perennials then fill the space without disturbing dormant roots. This plant contains irritating compounds and must never be eaten. In Quebec, its hardiness supports reliable return when drainage remains effective.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
60 to 80 cm (24 to 32 in)
Width / spread
Approximately 60 cm (24 in)
Flower color
Deep pink with a white tip
Foliage color
Fresh green to medium green
Foliage type
Deciduous and finely divided
Growth rate
Moderate
Growth habit
Upright clump with arching flower stems
Bloom period
Flowering occurs mainly in May and June. Arching stems carry rows of deep pink heart-shaped blooms finished with white inner petals resembling a drop. Cool spring weather and evenly moist soil extend the display, while heat speeds decline. Cut a few stems when several hearts are open, leaving enough flowers outdoors for spring visitors. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged.
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Hostas, ferns, heucheras, lungworts, astilbes, brunneras, and small primroses share a preference for partial shade and fresh humus-rich soil. Choose companions that expand after bleeding heart flowers to conceal dormancy without smothering the crown. Pale tulips and forget-me-nots add a spring transition. Maintain 40 to 60 cm around the rhizome and avoid aggressive roots. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged. Morning light and afternoon shade protect its delicate leaves. Light mulch limits evaporation while allowing air to circulate around the crown.
Plants to avoid
Avoid aggressive ground covers, trees with highly competitive surface roots, and plants requiring hot dry soil. These incompatibilities mainly concern water, light, and space.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
When should a bleeding-heart rhizome be planted?
Plant in spring once ground is thawed, drained, and workable, generally from April into May depending on the Quebec region. Keep the rhizome cool before planting without letting it dry. Loosen soil, add compost, and spread the roots. Set the crown 3 to 5 cm below the surface, allow 60 cm, and water deeply. Keep soil fresh afterward without saturation. If late frost threatens young shoots, temporarily protect them with breathable fabric removed in the morning. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged. Morning light and afternoon shade protect its delicate leaves. Light mulch limits evaporation while allowing air to circulate around the crown.
Why does the foliage disappear in summer?
Summer dormancy is normal for classic bleeding heart, especially after flowering as heat or dryness increases. Leaves yellow while the plant transfers reserves into the underground crown. Never cut them while green. Wait until they are completely dry, remove them cleanly, and mark the position. Reduce watering somewhat without allowing soil to become extremely dry for weeks. Nearby hostas, ferns, and astilbes naturally cover the space until shoots return the following spring. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged. Morning light and afternoon shade protect its delicate leaves. Light mulch limits evaporation while allowing air to circulate around the crown.
Is bleeding heart toxic?
Yes. Every part of Lamprocapnos spectabilis contains compounds that may cause illness if eaten, and sap can irritate sensitive skin. This plant is strictly ornamental. Wear gloves for planting, dividing, or cleaning the clump, then wash tools and hands. Keep rhizomes, stems, and flowers away from children and animals. Never leave pieces where a pet could chew them. If ingestion or a significant reaction occurs, promptly contact a health professional, poison service, or veterinarian for situation-specific advice. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged. Morning light and afternoon shade protect its delicate leaves. Light mulch limits evaporation while allowing air to circulate around the crown.
Can it be grown in a container in Quebec?
Yes, provided a sturdy container at least 40 cm wide and deep is freely perforated. Use rich drained mix, set the crown 3 to 5 cm deep, and keep the container in partial shade. Water deeply without leaving water in the saucer. Let foliage yellow after flowering. For a Quebec winter, insulate the sides, move the pot beside a sheltered wall, or temporarily sink it in drained ground. Avoid a heated room because it disrupts the cold rest needed for healthy spring growth. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged. Morning light and afternoon shade protect its delicate leaves.
Which plants conceal its dormancy?
Choose partial-shade perennials whose foliage expands after May, including hostas, ferns, astilbes, heucheras, brunneras, and lungworts. Place them close enough to visually cover the summer space while retaining 40 to 60 cm around the crown to prevent competition and smothering. Small primroses and forget-me-nots complement spring bloom. Mark the rhizome before its leaves disappear and never cultivate deeply there. A layered composition protects the plant while keeping the bed attractive through autumn. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged. Morning light and afternoon shade protect its delicate leaves. Light mulch limits evaporation while allowing air to circulate around the crown.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
Reported toxicity
Yes
Supporting wildlife
Pendant spring flowers provide nectar to some long-tongued bees and may receive hummingbird visits where these birds occur. Keep several flowering stems outdoors, avoid insecticides during bloom, and add open-flowered companions to diversify resources. This contribution is seasonal and does not replace a complete succession of nectar-rich plants. Bleeding heart appreciates humus-rich soil that remains fresh without becoming waterlogged.