Old Fashion Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Perennial

Old Fashion Bleeding Heart
Dicentra spectabilis


 
Features
Good specimen plant for the shaded garden. Graceful fern like foliage on a mound shaped plant. Dramatic flowers in late spring, early summer. Unique heart-shaped flowers. 
 
Culture
Does best in a shade to part shade site in soils that are high inorganic mater and remain moist but well drained. 
 
Cultivars

'Alba' 2-3 feet tall white flowers

'Goldheart' 2-3 feet tall pink flowers with golden yellow foliage

 
 
Mature Height
2-3 Feet
 
Size
 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
2 - 9 
 
Bloom Color
Pink
White
 
 
Bloom Season
June - June
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Shade
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
Yellow
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Verticillium wilt, powdery mildew, slugs
 
Additional Notes
Old fashion bleeding heart will go dormant during the summer. Foliage will turn yellow and die to the ground. May also die to the ground if planted in a dry location. Reported to be deer resistant.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic