Dutchman's breeches (Dicentra cucullaria)

Dutchman's breeches

Also known as: Snowboys, White hearts, Monks head, Kitten breeches, Little boys breeches

Dutchman's breeches gets its name from the shape of its flower petals. The petals form an upside-down “V” which resembles a pair of pants, or "britches." dutchman's breeches is found in the woods and blooms in early spring, making it some of the first food for bees and pollinators. It goes dormant towards the end of summer.

Scientific classification

Species

Dutchman's breeches (Dicentra cucullaria)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

White, Yellow, Pink

Flower Color

Red, Brown, Cream, Green, White, Yellow, Blue, Burgundy

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Dutchman's breeches

Culture

Garden Use

A popular perennial in partially shady gardens, dutchman's breeches is a hardy plant resistant to diseases and pests, including rabbits. The compact plant does well in woodland and coastal gardens, where it is used as a ground cover or in edging. It can also add color in the spring and summer to slopes and banks.

Symbolism

Romantic love and purity

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Toxicity

All parts of dutchman's breeches are toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. Ingestion causes trembling, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. Skin contact leads to redness and itching. Immediate veterinary care is crucial for pets that consume dutchman's breeches. Prevent access to this plant to avoid poisoning.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Dutchman's breeches

Heart-shaped, nodding flowers in white to pink shades.

Compound, deeply dissected, fern-like leaves creating feathery backdrop.

White flowers with inflated petals resembling upside-down pantaloons.

Oval fruit capsules tapering to points at both ends like lanterns.

Tan to reddish-brown stem with smooth texture, unbranched and slender.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Dutchman's breeches

Twice per week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Dutchman's breeches originates from moist woodlands and prefers evenly moist soil, with moderate drought tolerance. Watering should be twice a week for optimal hydration. It thrives outdoors in temperate gardens, benefiting from natural rainfall to complement regular watering.

Fertilize: Dutchman's breeches benefits from a balanced fertilizer, preferably high in phosphorus, to enhance root growth and blooms. Apply once in early spring and consider a second application post-flowering. Water thoroughly after fertilization and reduce feeding during dormancy to prevent stress.

Pruning: Dutchman's breeches features unique pendant blooms and delicate foliage, thriving with minimal pruning. Optimal pruning occurs in spring, focusing on dead stems for better air circulation. Proper timing supports flowering and reduces disease, ensuring a vibrant garden display.

Propagation: Dutchman's breeches, a woodland perennial, thrives when propagated in moist, well-drained soil under shady conditions. Seeds should be pressed into the soil, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging. Mimicking a cool, forest floor microclimate is essential for successful germination.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free