Dicentra spectabilis Alba

Dicentra spectabilis Alba - '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 is ideal. Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer parts of the UK. Can tolerate more sun in cooler regions if soil stays consistently moist.

Soil:
Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Prefers loamy soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Enrich soil with compost or leaf mould to support vigorous growth.

Exposure:
Best in a sheltered position, protected from strong winds and hot sun. Fully hardy, tolerating even severe frost when established.

Drought Tolerance:
Low. Requires regular moisture, particularly in spring and early summer. Dry conditions will lead to early foliage dieback.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in autumn or early spring. Position the crown just below soil level. Allow space for the arching stems to spread naturally.

Spacing:
Space 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart. Typically reaches 75–90 cm (30–36 inches) in height and spread.

Watering & Fertilization:
Keep soil evenly moist through the growing season. Water deeply during dry spells. Apply compost or a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support growth and flowering.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch annually in spring to retain soil moisture and improve fertility. Allow foliage to yellow and die back naturally after flowering. Cut back spent stems to ground level once fully dormant.

Propagation:
Propagate by division in autumn or early spring. Can be grown from seed, but cultivar characteristics may not be retained.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Produces elegant, arching stems with pure white, heart-shaped flowers from April to June—stunning against the fresh green fern-like foliage.

Summer:
Foliage fades and dies back as temperatures rise or soil dries. Plant near summer perennials to fill the visual gap.

Autumn:
Generally dormant. Mark plant location to avoid accidental digging during autumn garden tasks.

Winter:
Dormant underground. Apply a light mulch in colder areas to protect the crown from wet or freezing conditions.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Attracts bees and early-season pollinators. Flowers provide a nectar source in spring, but not a major wildlife plant overall.

Garden Use:
Excellent for shaded or woodland borders, underplanting deciduous shrubs, and cottage gardens. Adds elegance and contrast in spring plantings with its pure white flowers.

Companion Plants:
Pairs beautifully with ferns, Brunnera, Pulmonaria, Hellebores, Tiarella, and spring bulbs. Works well with contrasting colours like dark-leaved Heucheras or blue-flowering perennials like Forget-me-nots and Amsonia.

Transform your home and garden with the Dicentra spectabilis Alba - '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.