Dicentra spectabilis (Bleeding Heart)

Dicentra spectabilis, also called bleeding heart, is a common, shade-loving perennial that blooms from early to late spring with nodding, puffy, pink heart-shaped flowers with protruding white petals. 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 pink hues and ornamental uses, and even though it is capable of self-seeding, it does not easily become invasive. Bleeding heart grows to 24-36" tall and 18-24" wide with a mounded growth habit and gracefully arching flower spikes; bleeding heart prefers moist, well drained, fertile soil, and is an excellent springtime ornamental before its foliage goes dormant during the summer months.