Dicentra Spectibilis

Dicentra spectabilis, often called Bleeding Heart, is one of those spring favourites that stops you in your tracks. Arching stems carry rows of perfectly formed, heart-shaped pink flowers with little white “teardrops”, hovering above soft, ferny foliage. It’s a true woodland-style classic—romantic, elegant and wonderfully easy to fit into shaded borders where many plants struggle to shine.

This is a brilliant choice for shady corners, woodland gardens, and cottage-style planting, and it also looks lovely weaving through hostas, ferns and spring bulbs. Once established it’s long-lived and low-maintenance, quietly returning each year to put on its charming display

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant bare root Dicentra in autumn to early spring while the plant is dormant. Avoid planting when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

Where to Plant:
Choose a spot in partial shade or dappled shade with moisture-retentive, well-drained soil. Dicentra is perfect for woodland gardens, shaded borders and cottage gardens, and it thrives when sheltered from hot afternoon sun.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the crown sits about 3–5 cm below the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants about 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart to allow room for clumps to develop.
• Soil Prep: Improve the planting area with well-rotted compost or leaf mould to help retain moisture and support strong growth.

Watering:
Water well after planting and keep the soil evenly moist while the plant establishes. Once settled, water during prolonged dry spells, particularly in spring.

Aftercare Tips:

• Apply a mulch in spring to retain moisture and feed the soil.
• After flowering, the foliage may die back in summer—this is normal. Let it fade naturally before tidying.
• Leave the plant undisturbed where possible; Dicentra prefers not to be moved once established.

Top Tip:
Plant Dicentra among Hostas and ferns, and add spring bulbs nearby—it creates a gorgeous layered display in shade and looks stunning year after year.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
April - June

Height:
24–36" (60–90cm) approx.

Position:
Part shade / dappled shade

Hardy Perennial