Product description
Dicentra alba, commonly known as the White Bleeding Heart, is a graceful perennial cherished for its elegant, heart-shaped white flowers that dangle from arching stems. The plant forms a lush mound of finely divided, pale green foliage, providing a soft backdrop that enhances the purity of its blooms. This variety brings a serene beauty to shaded garden areas, making it a favorite among gardeners seeking to brighten dim corners.
Blooming from April through June, the White Bleeding Heart offers a stunning display in late spring and early summer. Its delicate flowers and attractive foliage make it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or as a focal point in a container on a sheltered patio. The plant's arching stems add a dynamic architectural element, creating visual interest even when not in bloom.
Thriving in partial shade, Dicentra alba prefers moist, fertile, humus-rich soils. It's well-suited for UK gardens, being hardy and capable of withstanding typical British winters. While generally low-maintenance, it's important to keep the soil consistently moist and to handle the plant with care, as all parts can cause stomach discomfort if ingested, and the foliage may irritate the skin. With proper care, this perennial will reward gardeners with its timeless elegance and charm year after year.
Please Note: Images are for illustrative purposes only and designed to be a representation of the item(s) being sold. Depending on seasonality, deciduous plants may be supplied in their dormant state and without leaves. Plants may also be pruned back, lower than stated heights, to encourage new growth.
Garden Plant Size Guide
Plants in larger pots can be multiple years older than their smaller counterparts with more mature root systems and foliage. This makes them able to thrive as a full size plant in your garden quicker than smaller alternatives.
The most common size of pot that garden plants come in are 9cm/1L/3L/5L this is in reference to the diameter at the top of the pot.
9cm potted plants still remain the most popular cost effective option though, they just may take a little patience to allow them to grow into full maturity once planted in your garden.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
After blooming, Dicentra may go dormant in summer. To maintain garden interest, plant it alongside later-blooming perennials that will fill in the gaps once its foliage dies back.
How to Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot weather. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot. Once established, Dicentra is somewhat drought-tolerant but benefits from regular moisture.
How to Plant
Plant Dicentra in well-draining, humus-rich soil with partial to full shade. Space plants 45-60cm apart. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the plant in, and cover with soil. Water well after planting. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.