Also known as Bleeding Heart · 915 saves
Dicentra
Dicentra, the genus most gardeners know as bleeding heart. We track 21 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 19 most-saved Dicentra varieties
Browse all 21 Dicentra varieties →
2 species of Dicentra
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Dicentra in Sow
Save the Dicentra you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Dicentra
Whats common across all Dicentra varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 21 most-grown of them.
The Dicentra year
- DivideAugust and September90% of varieties
Divide large clumps every 4-5 years in early fall if vigor declines
- MulchMarch and April76% of varieties
Apply 2 inches of mulch to keep roots cool and conserve moisture
- Spring CleanupFebruary76% of varieties
Clear away old foliage before new shoots emerge in late winter/early spring
- FertilizeMarch52% of varieties
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer as foliage emerges
- PlantMarch, April, September and October48% of varieties
Plant bare roots or containers in early spring or fall
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Refrain from disturbing roots during flowering
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Refrain from using synthetic fertilizers excessively
What goes wrong with Dicentra
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Slugs | Chewed leaves and slime trails | Use organic slug bait or handpick during evening |
| Generally pest-free | No significant insect damage is typical | Monitor only; NCSU rates it resistant to both deer and rabbits |
| Root rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Powdery Mildew | White powder on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide if needed |
| Root Rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Ensure well-draining soil and reduce watering |
Making more Dicentra
Division
- Dig up mature plants in early spring or fall
- Gently separate clumps with a sharp knife or spade
- Plant divisions immediately at the same depth
- Water thoroughly after planting
- Keep soil moist for the first few weeks
Seed
- Collect seeds after flowering when seed pods mature
- Sow seeds in moist seed-starting mix in early spring
- Cover lightly with soil and keep moist
- Germination occurs in 2-4 weeks
- Transplant seedlings once established
Dicentra questions
How many types of Dicentra are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 21 distinct Dicentra varieties. The most popular — ranked by 915 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Dicentra grow in?
Across its varieties, Dicentra covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Dicentra bloom?
Most Dicentra varieties bloom in late spring, late spring to summer, early spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Dicentra should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.