The Timeless Beauty of Bleeding Hearts in the Garden

The most widely known bleeding heart (Lamprocapnos spectabilis, formerly Dicentra spectabilis) is a much-loved and commonly grown woodland perennial. It is known for its elegant, arching stems and very distinctive heart-shaped blossoms. Its charming flowers and graceful foliage have made it a staple in shade gardens and woodland plantings across much of the temperate world.

Bleeding heart is an herbaceous perennial in the family Papaveraceae (formerly Fumariaceae). It typically grows in a loose and graceful mound, reaching a mature height and width of 2 to 3 feet. The plant is native to parts of northeastern Asia, including Siberia, Japan, northern China, and Korea. It is hardy from USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3a through 9b. Though not a native species, it is not invasive.

The common name "bleeding heart" comes from the plant's pendulous racemes (clusters) of 1- to 2-inch flowers. There can be 7 to 15 flowers on each raceme. Each blossom consists of two rose-pink (or sometimes white or red) outer petals that form a heart shape, and two white inner petals that protrude outward, giving the impression that they are "bleeding" from the heart. The flowering period is from April to June, depending on the climate. They make good cut flowers, lasting up to 2 weeks in a vase. The flowers also attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

As the flowers fade, they are replaced by elongated seed pods, each containing from 2 to 8 black, rounded, smooth seeds. Though these seeds are fertile, bleeding hearts are more often propagated by division rather than by seed. The seeds are slow to germinate and require a cold, moist stratification period.

The fern-like and gracefully arching foliage of common bleeding heart is also quite attractive.

Growing Conditions

Bleeding hearts thrive in partial to full shade. In cooler and moister areas, they can tolerate morning sun or filtered light. In hotter or drier regions, shade is especially important to prevent stress and premature dormancy.

The soil needs to be rich in organic matter, well-draining, but moisture-retentive. A loam or humus-rich soil is ideal. The plant can tolerate a variety of soil textures, including clay or sand, provided the drainage and moisture conditions are favorable. Add organic matter to less-desirable planting soils. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (about 6.0–7.0) is typically recommended.

Consistent soil moisture is preferred by this perennial, especially during the active growth and blooming period from spring through early summer. Application of a 2- to 3-inch mulch layer of shredded leaves or compost will help retain moisture, moderate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. In dry spells, supplemental watering may be needed.

Planting in early spring or in the fall is preferred. When planting, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball. Amend the soil with organic matter, if needed. Set the crown about 2 inches below the soil surface, as this planting depth encourages better flowering.

After planting, water thoroughly and continue, as needed, until established. Bleeding heart generally does not require heavy fertilization. Compost applied in early spring when new growth begins is usually adequate.

Once the blooming period is over, the foliage often yellows as the plant naturally enters dormancy, known as partial senescence, in which the leaves and stems die back, but the roots remain alive. In warm climates or dry conditions, this senescence may accelerate. In dark, damp shade, the foliage may remain until fall. Once the foliage turns yellow and dies, the stems can be cut back to the ground.

To propagate, divide established clumps in early spring or late fall. Ensure that each division retains a portion of its roots.

Landscape Use

Bleeding heart’s foliage texture, shade tolerance, and striking spring blooms make it an ideal addition to shady areas. It will work well in woodland gardens, shade borders, mixed perennial beds, and cottage-style landscapes. Its foliage acts as a substitute for ferns when creating combinations of plants that fall into the three foliage categories of spikey (or sword-like), round, and fern-like.

Because the plant often dies back by late summer, plant it next to perennials such as hostas, ferns, astilbes, and heucheras. These companions help "fill the void" once the foliage recedes. Alternatively, a container of shade-loving annuals can be placed in the empty spot

There are also several cultivars that offer variety beyond the classic, pink-flowered form. 'Alba' provides all white flowers and is said to be more tolerant of summer heat. ‘Gold Heart’ produces classic rose-pink flowers but has chartreuse (or golden-tinged) foliage that creates brightness in a shady area. A newer cultivar, VALENTINE® (variety 'Hordival', USPP 22739) features red and white flowers with dark green foliage on dark purple stems.

Note that bleeding hearts are generally resistant to pests such as deer and rabbits and will grow in dark shade as well as under black walnut trees.

Concerns

Bleeding hearts are generally low-maintenance plants. However, overwatering or waterlogged, poorly drained soil can lead to root rot. In hot, dry climates, the plant may prematurely enter dormancy. All parts of the plant are mildly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. The plant may produce contact dermatitis in humans, so it is advised to wear gloves when handling this plant. Slugs and snails sometimes bother this perennial.

Native Species

Common bleeding heart was formerly classified in the genus Dicentra. There are several native species of Dicentra that should be useful additions to Pennsylvania woodland and shade gardens. All have fringed foliage, white to pink flowers born on racemes, prefer damp, shady areas, and are mildly toxic to humans.

Dicentra eximia is known as the eastern or fringed bleeding heart. It is reliably hardy down to USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 3. Compared to Lamprocapnos spectabilis, it is a much smaller plant, reaching only a foot tall and wide. It also has more finely divided leaves and smaller flowers. 'Luxuriant' is a commonly found hybrid of this species and is much more heat-tolerant than the common bleeding heart, retaining its bluish-green leaves throughout the summer.

D. canadensis is also known as squirrel corn. It is a very small plant, at less than a foot tall and wide, with charming white to pale pink flowers that are very similar in shape to Lamprocapnos spectabilis.

D. cucullaria, or Dutchman's breeches, is a very small native perennial. It produces quite adorable white flowers that resemble upside-down pantaloons.