Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' (Bleeding Heart)

Dicentra spectabilis, also called bleeding heart, is a common, shade loving perennial, perfect for old-fashioned gardens and blooming in early to late spring. Though the straight species is known for its nodding, puffy, heart-shaped pink flowers with protruding white petals, the 'Alba' cultivar produces a pure white bloom with the classic bleeding heart shape, adding an excellent contrast to plantings alongside other bleeding heart plants, or in any part-shade location.

Best used in in a shaded border or woodland garden, Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba' grows to 24-36" tall and 18-24" wide with a mounded, arching growth habit. Dicentra spectabilis prefers moist, well drained, fertile soil and, although it will die back through the heat of the summer, 'Alba' makes an excellent ephemeral addition to any spring landscape. Though this bleeding heart selection is not native to the US, it presents very little risk of becoming invasive, and adds a lot of pollinator and aesthetic benefit.