perennial

Valentine Common Bleeding Heart

Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Valentine'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate to high

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived perennial

Native To

Siberia, Northern China, Korea, Japan (species)

Toxicity

Can cause skin irritation; toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Lamprocapnos spectabilis, the common bleeding heart, is a classic shade perennial known for its arching stems of distinctive, heart-shaped flowers with a dangling 'drop' at the base. The foliage is soft, fern-like, and typically goes dormant in summer. 'Valentine' is a striking cultivar featuring intense cherry-red and white flowers held on graceful, arching, deep red stems. The foliage emerges with a purplish-bronze tint before maturing to gray-green, providing a beautiful contrast.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The unique, heart-shaped red flowers on arching stems create an unforgettable display of elegance and romance in the spring shade garden. The contrasting dark stems and lush foliage add to its appeal.

It thrives in shady, moist areas where many other plants struggle, filling a crucial niche in the garden. Its summer dormancy allows later-emerging plants like hostas to fill the space.

The early spring flowers provide an important nectar source for emerging queen bumblebees and hummingbirds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a spot in partial to full shade with rich, moist soil.
Amend the soil with plenty of compost or leaf mold.
Dig a hole wide enough for the brittle roots to spread out.
Set the crown of the plant about 1-2 inches below the soil surface.
Backfill gently, water thoroughly, and apply mulch.
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season.

Pro Tip

Mark the plant's location before it goes dormant in summer to avoid accidentally digging it up later.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistently moist, humus-rich soil.
Plant in a location protected from strong winds.
Allow the foliage to die back naturally to replenish the roots.

Don't

Don't plant in hot, dry, sunny locations.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, which can trigger early dormancy.
Be careful when cultivating nearby, as the roots are brittle.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant focal point in a shade gardenGraceful addition to woodland bordersCompanion for hostas and ferns

Companion Plants

Hosta Athyrium Dryopteris Brunnera macrophylla Pulmonaria

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Valentine Common Bleeding Heart questions

What zones can Valentine Common Bleeding Heart grow in?

Valentine Common 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 Valentine Common Bleeding Heart deer resistant?

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

When does Valentine Common Bleeding Heart bloom?

Valentine Common Bleeding Heart typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Valentine Common Bleeding Heart need full sun?

Valentine Common Bleeding Heart does best in part shade.