Dicentra Spectabilis

Dicentra Spectabilis - 'Bleeding Heart'

Why Buy Me?

• Arching stems of beautiful heart shaped flowers
• Grows well in sun or shade
• Spring & Summer flowering

Growing Conditions

Light:
Partial shade. Thrives best in dappled or morning sun with protection from harsh afternoon light. Can tolerate full sun in cooler areas if soil remains consistently moist.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Prefers neutral to slightly alkaline conditions. Avoid heavy clay or overly dry, sandy soils unless amended with organic matter.

Exposure:
Sheltered positions are ideal—protected from strong winds and hot midday sun. Hardy throughout the UK, tolerating even severe winters with appropriate soil drainage.

Drought Tolerance:
Low. Requires consistent moisture during the growing season. Prolonged dryness may cause early dieback of foliage.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in early spring or autumn. Ensure crowns are planted just below soil level and avoid disturbance once established.

Spacing:
Space 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart. Grows to about 75–90 cm (30–36 inches) in height with a similar spread.

Watering & Fertilization:
Keep soil evenly moist during the active growing season (spring to early summer). Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost mulch in early spring to support lush growth.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch annually in spring with compost or well-rotted manure to conserve moisture and enrich the soil. After flowering, allow foliage to yellow and die back naturally. Remove spent stems once fully dormant.

Propagation:
Propagate by division in autumn or early spring. Can also be grown from seed, but cultivars like ‘Alba’ or ‘Valentine’ may not come true.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Produces elegant, arching stems with heart-shaped pink and white flowers from April to June. Early-season standout in shaded borders.

Summer:
Foliage begins to fade and die back, especially if soil becomes dry or temperatures rise. Can be interplanted with late-emerging perennials to fill gaps.

Autumn:
Usually dormant by autumn. Mulch crowns lightly to protect in very wet or cold conditions.

Winter:
Fully dormant. Mark clump locations if planting nearby to avoid accidental disturbance during winter garden work.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Attractive to early-season pollinators such as bees. Not particularly valuable for birds or insects otherwise.

Garden Use:
Ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and cottage-style plantings. Works well in combination with Hostas, ferns, pulmonaria, and spring bulbs. Avoid placing in overly dry or exposed areas.

Companion Plants:
Combines beautifully with Brunnera, Hellebores, Aquilegia, Tiarella, and other spring woodland perennials. Plant alongside summer performers like Geraniums or Astilbes to extend border interest.

Transform your home and garden with the Dicentra Spectabilis - 'Bleeding Heart' , a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.