Dolly Sods Bleeding Heart
Dicentra eximia 'Dolly Sods'
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
Consistent moisture
Humidity
Prefers high humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Low-growing perennial with attractive foliage and delicate flowers. Notable for its unique fern-like foliage and long-lasting blooms.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck well-draining soil mix around roots for quick establishment.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Plant in a shaded or partial sun location to mimic native habitat.
- Water consistently but avoid waterlogging during active growth.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Divide clumps in early spring or late fall for propagation.
Pro Tip
Provide shady conditions and consistent moisture for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to direct, harsh sunlight
- Avoid disturbing roots during active growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Dolly Sods Bleeding Heart questions
What zones can Dolly Sods Bleeding Heart grow in?
Dolly Sods 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 Dolly Sods Bleeding Heart deer resistant?
Yes — Dolly Sods Bleeding Heart is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Dolly Sods Bleeding Heart bloom?
Dolly Sods 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 Dolly Sods Bleeding Heart need full sun?
Dolly Sods Bleeding Heart does best in part shade.
More Dicentra to compare
Fernleaf Bleeding Heart
Dicentra spectabilis 'Fernleaf Bleeding Heart Mix'
Fringed Bleeding Heart
Dicentra eximia 'Pink Diamonds'
Valentine bleeding heart
Dicentra spectabilis 'VALENTINE'
Bleeding Heart
Dicentra spectabilis
Luxuriant Bleeding Heart
Dicentra spectabilis 'Luxuriant'
White Diamonds Bleeding Heart
Dicentra spectabilis 'White Diamonds'
Keep exploring
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Grow Dolly Sods 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.
