How to Grow Bleeding Heart (Dicentra): Romantic Shade Perennial for Spring

How to Grow Bleeding Heart (Dicentra)

Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis) is a shade-loving woodland perennial from U.S./Canadian woods, prized for arching sprays of heart-shaped pink/white (also red, rose, yellow, purple) flowers with prominent stamens in spring–early summer. Grows 1–3 feet. Deer-resistant; hummingbirds love it. Good cut flowers. All parts toxic—causes rash; keep from children/pets.

Propagation

Divide rhizomes (each piece needs an eye or two). Seed rarely used.

How to Grow Bleeding Heart

• Light: Shade; sun only in cool climates.
• Soil: Rich, well-drained, consistently moist.
• Water: Keep moist, not soggy.
• Fertilizer: Regular, especially in lean soil.
• Maintenance: Mulch for moisture. Goes dormant in summer heat. Cut back to 1–2 inches after killing frost.

Pests & Diseases

Not specified; generally trouble-free in proper conditions.