Bleeding Heart (Dicentra eximia)

Bleeding Heart

Also known as: Wild Bleedingheart, Bleeding-Heart, Fringed Bleeding Heart, Staggarweed

Dicentra eximia, or bleeding Heart, is also known as "wild bleeding heart". This pretty plant has fern-like leaves and clusters of small, pink heart-shaped flowers. It is native to the Appalachian mountains and makes an excellent addition to shade gardens. This plant is considered toxic if ingested.

Scientific classification

Species

Bleeding Heart (Dicentra eximia)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

30 cm to 45 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

2 mm to 5 mm

Flower Size

Green, Black

Fruit Color

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Distribution of Bleeding Heart

Distribution Map

Bleeding Heart is native to the eastern part of North America. As an enduringly popular ornamental plant, it has found its way into gardens across various continents and is particularly noted in some European regions. Bleeding Heart shows adaptability outside its original range but retains a specific affinity for its indigenous temperate woodlands.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rich, wooded slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The delicate bleeding Heart shrub works well as ground cover in informal cottage gardens, shade gardens, and even rock gardens. The foliage and showy blooms appear in the summer or fall and are best when the plant is grown in shady, moist locations. These blooms also draw in pollinators and hummingbirds, so this plant is a good addition to wildlife gardens, too.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Bleeding Heart, including the following common varieties :

Turkey-corn 'Burning Hearts'

Toxicity

Bleeding Heart is a toxic plant that causes poisoning in dogs, cats, and humans. Ingestion leads to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness, while skin contact results in irritation. All parts contain isoquinoline alkaloids, but leaves have the highest concentration. Immediate veterinary care is essential for dogs and cats exposed to bleeding Heart to mitigate impacts and ensure well-being.

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Quickly Identify Bleeding Heart

Heart-shaped, pink to purple flowers on erect-spreading inflorescence.

Fern-like foliage finely dissected in a ternately decompound manner.

Distinct pendulous, white to deep pink, heart-shaped flowers with reflexed petals.

Modest, elongated fruit capsule, brown to greenish, less than 1 inch (2.54 cm).

2-pinnately divided, fern-like leaves with prominent veins and delicate texture.

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Care Guide for Bleeding Heart

Twice per week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Bleeding Heart thrives in moist woodland settings, preferring evenly moist soil and requiring watering twice a week. It flourishes best in high humidity, benefiting from regular misting or a pebble tray. Indoors, it is valued for its distinctive heart-shaped flowers.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, bleeding Heart requires regular fertilization with balanced formulas during spring and summer. Use a high phosphorus fertilizer monthly at half strength and withhold in winter. Always water after fertilizing to enhance nutrient uptake and prevent root burn, adjusting feeding with bleeding Heart's life cycle for health.

Pruning: Bleeding Heart features heart-shaped flowers on arching stems. Prune in early spring before new growth and again in late spring post-bloom. Remove dead stems to improve health and enhance vigor. Regular pruning promotes air circulation, reducing disease risk. Consult guides for optimal pruning methods.

Propagation: Bleeding Heart is propagated mainly by sowing in Spring, with moderate difficulty. New growth and healthy roots indicate successful propagation. Optimal results require adequate moisture and warmth.

Repotting: Repot bleeding Heart every 2-3 years during vigorous spring growth. Use a slightly larger container to prevent overcrowding. After repotting, provide well-draining soil and moderate watering to support recovery. Careful attention will promote healthy flourishing.

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Distribution of Bleeding Heart

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Bleeding Heart

Care Guide for Bleeding Heart

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