Bleeding Heart flowers (Lamprocapnos spectabilis) are popular garden perennials known for their distinctive heart-shaped blooms. These elegant plants bring delicate beauty to spring gardens with their gracefully arching stems.
Understanding Bleeding Heart Flowers
Lamprocapnos spectabilis, formerly Dicentra spectabilis, originates from the woodlands of Northeast China, the Korean peninsula, and Japan. These plants typically feature pink and white blossoms that dangle from arching stems. Growing up to three feet tall and wide, they are woodland plants that thrive in cooler temperatures and partial to full shade environments.
The Search for Purple Bleeding Hearts
True purple Bleeding Hearts are uncommon; most traditional varieties display shades of pink, white, or deep red. The color often perceived as purple tends to be vibrant magenta, deep rose, or purplish-pink. Cultivars like ‘Bacchanal’ are known for their deep red, almost maroon flowers, which some interpret as a rich purple hue.
Certain Fringed Bleeding Heart (Dicentra eximia) varieties also offer purplish-pink tones. ‘Adrian Bloom’ is a selection with deep rose-red flowers. The cultivar ‘Valentine’ features rich red flowers with darker, almost purplish stems and leaves. While a true royal purple is elusive, these cultivars offer the closest options for a darker, saturated color.
Cultivating Bleeding Heart Flowers
Bleeding Heart plants thrive in conditions mimicking their native woodland habitats, preferring partial to full shade. Morning sun is tolerated, but direct afternoon sun can yellow foliage and induce premature dormancy. An ideal location offers dappled light or morning sun followed by afternoon shade, especially in warmer climates.
Soil rich in organic matter, moist, and well-draining is ideal. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure before planting improves soil structure and fertility. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.5) supports healthy growth.
Consistent moisture is important throughout the growing season, particularly during dry spells. The soil should remain moist but never waterlogged, as excessively wet conditions can lead to root rot. Bleeding Hearts are not heavy feeders; an annual spring top-dressing of compost or a slow-release granular fertilizer is usually sufficient.
Bleeding Hearts generally thrive in temperatures between 55-75°F. Most Lamprocapnos spectabilis varieties naturally go dormant in mid-summer as temperatures rise, with foliage yellowing and dying back. For fringed varieties like Dicentra eximia, deadheading spent blooms can encourage a longer flowering period. Once foliage yellows and dies back, it can be cut to the ground; however, waiting until it fully yellows allows the plant to store energy for the following season.
Addressing Common Bleeding Heart Issues
Bleeding Heart plants are robust, but issues can arise from environmental conditions. Yellowing leaves in summer are often a natural sign of dormancy, especially in warmer climates. However, yellowing can also indicate too much sun exposure, inadequate watering, or overly alkaline soil. Adjusting light, water, or soil pH can help.
Wilting can be a symptom of insufficient water or more serious problems like root rot, particularly in poorly draining soil. Fungal diseases such as Verticillium wilt, Fusarium wilt, and crown rot can also cause wilting and plant decline by disrupting nutrient absorption.
Pests like aphids, slugs, and snails occasionally bother Bleeding Hearts. Aphids cause distorted growth, while slugs and snails leave ragged holes in leaves. Powdery mildew and leaf spot are common fungal diseases appearing as powdery patches or spots on foliage, especially in humid conditions. Good air circulation and watering at soil level help prevent these issues; insecticidal soap or fungicides can manage infestations.
Bleeding Heart Plant Safety
All parts of the Bleeding Heart plant are toxic if ingested, containing isoquinoline alkaloids. These compounds can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in humans. Direct contact with the plant’s foliage may also cause skin irritation or a rash.
Caution is important, especially when children or pets are in areas where Bleeding Hearts are planted. Ingesting parts of the plant can lead to severe symptoms in pets, including staggering, tremors, weakness, liver damage, or seizures. Wearing gloves when handling the plants is recommended to avoid potential skin irritation.