How to identify Bleeding-Hearts (Dicentra)

Photo By Lindsey G. , used under CC-BY /Cropped and compressed from original

How to identify Bleeding-Hearts (Dicentra)

Bleeding-Hearts is a herbaceous flowering plant that typically stands at a height and width of approximately 1 foot (30 cm). It exhibits a charming aesthetic with distinctive heart-shaped flowers that are often a striking shade, suspended elegantly from arching, slender stems. The foliage is typically feathery or fern-like, contributing to its delicate appearance. Bleeding-Hearts thrives in moist environments, reflective of its woodland origins, and flourishes best when provided with ample moisture and partial shade.

Lifespan: Perennial

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Bleeding-Hearts

Heart-shaped flowers in varied shades (white, pink, yellow).

Leafless stems, slender and smooth, minimal branching.

Feathery, lace-like foliage, 2-pinnately divided leaves.

Terminal clusters of heart-shaped flowers with prominent spurs.

Longitudinally dehiscent fruit capsules, black shiny seeds.

Detailed Traits of Bleeding-Hearts

Leaf Features

The leaves of bleeding-Hearts are 2-pinnately divided, presenting a delicate and intricate appearance. Each leaf typically measures 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in length and has deeply lobed ultimate segments. The foliage is a soft green, with a smooth texture and a fine, lace-like pattern. The veins are not prominently visible due to the finely divided structure, adding to the leaves' feathery aesthetic. These features make the leaves distinctive and easily recognizable.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of bleeding-Hearts form elongated, terminal clusters with each flower nodding gracefully. Each flower features two prominent spurs on the upper side. The blossoms are heart-shaped and often measure around 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length. They can be found in various shades, including white, pink, and yellow. Their unique shape and arrangement make them easily identifiable. These flowers usually bloom from late spring to early summer, adding delicate beauty to their surroundings.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stems of bleeding-Hearts are distinctive for being leafless, often rising directly from the base of the plant. They exhibit a slender, smooth texture and are typically green to slightly reddish in color. The thickness of the stems averages around 0.1 to 0.2 inches (2.5 to 5 mm) in diameter. Branching is minimal to non-existent, contributing to a clean, uncluttered appearance. The stem’s lack of leaves makes bleeding-Hearts easily recognizable even to novice plant enthusiasts.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of the bleeding-Hearts plant is a slender capsule, longitudinally dehiscent, that allows the black, shiny seeds to disperse. Typically, these capsules are about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in length. Although inedible, they have a distinctive appearance, with their outer surface smooth to the touch. The green to bluish-green hue of the capsules matures to a brownish color as the season progresses. Upon maturity, the capsules split open along the seams to release the contained seeds.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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