perennial

White Bleeding Heart

Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba'

$14.33

The Story

Plant Bio

Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Alba' (formerly Dicentra spectabilis) is known for its graceful, arching stems of delicate, pure white, heart-shaped flowers that droop over fern-like, green foliage.

This cultivar is distinguished by its white flowers, contrasting with the more common pink variety of Dicentra spectabilis, making it a unique choice for gardeners.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesSpectacular, arching sprays of white flowers add elegance to shaded gardens.
Practical UsesProvides ground cover in shaded areas, reducing weeds.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and butterflies.
SpeciesDicentra spectabilisBleeding Heart

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moist, humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested, handle with care

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$14.33

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
  2. Plant bulbs in early fall, 2-3 inches deep with the pointed end up.
  3. Place in partial shade to protect from harsh afternoon sun.
  4. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during growth.
  5. Mulch around the plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring for propagation.

Pro Tip

Plant in a shaded spot with rich, moist soil for best blooms and healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist 💧
  • Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring 🌱
  • Mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t expose to full, hot sun which can scorch leaves
  • Avoid disturbing roots during blooming season

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Mulch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderFragrant shaded garden bedNaturalized shady area

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Bleeding Heart questions

What zones can White Bleeding Heart grow in?

White Bleeding Heart 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 White Bleeding Heart deer resistant?

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

When does White Bleeding Heart bloom?

White Bleeding Heart 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 White Bleeding Heart need full sun?

White Bleeding Heart does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow White Bleeding Heart 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.