Dicentra spectabilis (Bleeding Heart)

Dicentra spectabilis, also called bleeding heart and Lamprocapnos spectabilis, is a common, shade-loving perennial that blooms from early to late spring with nodding, puffy, pink heart-shaped flowers with protruding white petals. Commonly found naturalized woodland areas and shaded slopes, Dicentra spectabilis is not a native species, and is commonly mistaken for (and closely related to) the native variety of bleeding heart, Dicentra eximia. Uniquely shaped, vibrant flowers attract pollinators and add lovely appeal to a variety of part shade and shade locations around the home.

Due to its shade-loving nature, bleeding heart is best used in in a shaded border or bed or naturalized in a woodland garden; although Dicentra spectabilis is not a native species to the US, it is well regarded for its striking ornamental uses and bumblebee attracting nature, and even though it is capable of self-seeding, it does not easily become invasive. Bleeding heart grows to 2-3' tall and 18-24" wide with a mounded, gracefully arching growth habit; bleeding heart prefers moist, well drained, fertile soil, and is an excellent springtime ornamental before its foliage may go dormant during the summer months.