perennial

Burning Hearts Bleeding Heart

Dicentra spectabilis 'Burning Hearts'

The Story

Plant Bio

Burning Hearts features heart-shaped leaves with a unique maroon coloration and arching flower spikes with delicate, pendulous blooms.

This cultivar is distinguished by its striking foliage color and compact growth habit.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesDelicate, heart-shaped blooms add charm to shaded gardens, while lush foliage provides a lush backdrop.
Practical UsesPrefers shady conditions, reducing the need for watering in hot, dry periods.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and hummingbirds during blooming season.
SpeciesDicentra spectabilisBleeding Heart

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistently moist

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested, keep away from pets and children

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

J
F
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A
M
J
J
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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
  3. Plant in partial shade with moist, rich soil for optimal growth.
  4. Water consistently, keeping soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Apply organic compost in early spring to boost nutrients.
  6. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring for rejuvenation.

Pro Tip

Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, enhancing growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Provide partial shade in hot climates
  • Fertilize with a balanced, organic fertilizer in spring
  • Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates
  • Refrain from using synthetic fertilizers excessively
  • Don’t disturb roots when dividing

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland garden with delicate, fern-like foliageFragrant border in shaded perennial bedsNaturalized shady area with vibrant blooms

Companion Plants

HostaFerns AstilbeTrilliumBleeding Heart

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Burning Hearts Bleeding Heart questions

What zones can Burning Hearts Bleeding Heart grow in?

Burning Hearts Bleeding Heart is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Burning Hearts Bleeding Heart deer resistant?

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

When does Burning Hearts Bleeding Heart bloom?

Burning Hearts 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 Burning Hearts Bleeding Heart need full sun?

Burning Hearts Bleeding Heart does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Burning Hearts 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.