Dicentra formosa 'Bacchanal'
perennial

Pacific Bleeding Heart 'Bacchanal'

Dicentra formosa 'Bacchanal'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Western North America

Toxicity

All parts may cause skin irritation and are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Dicentra formosa, commonly known as Pacific Bleeding Heart, is a perennial herbaceous plant with delicate, fern-like foliage and arching stems bearing heart-shaped, pink to red flowers that dangle gracefully in spring and early summer. The 'Bacchanal' cultivar is distinguished by its deep crimson-red, heart-shaped flowers and vigorous, spreading habit, making it a striking addition to shaded borders and woodland gardens.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds delicate, romantic charm with its distinctive heart-shaped flowers, ideal for shaded garden beds and borders.
Practical UsesPrefers moist, well-drained soil, providing reliable ground cover in shady areas.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators attracted to early bloom time and nectar.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or divisions into well-prepared soil in early spring.
  2. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
  3. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
  4. Apply a light layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Monitor for pests and diseases, treating promptly as needed.
  6. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
  • Divide every 3-4 years for vigorous growth
  • Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth

Don't

  • Avoid dry or overly sandy soils ❌
  • Do not let soil dry out completely
  • Avoid excessive fertilizing which can promote weak stems
  • Refrain from disturbing roots during flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMoist shady garden cornerHeart-shaped focal point

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Heucheras

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pacific Bleeding Heart 'Bacchanal' questions

What zones can Pacific Bleeding Heart 'Bacchanal' grow in?

Pacific Bleeding Heart 'Bacchanal' is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Pacific Bleeding Heart 'Bacchanal' deer resistant?

Yes — Pacific Bleeding Heart 'Bacchanal' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Pacific Bleeding Heart 'Bacchanal' bloom?

Pacific Bleeding Heart 'Bacchanal' typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Pacific Bleeding Heart 'Bacchanal' need full sun?

Pacific Bleeding Heart 'Bacchanal' does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Pacific Bleeding Heart 'Bacchanal' with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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