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Herbaceous Perennial

Lamprocapnos spectabilis

bleeding heart

A clump-forming perennial to about 1m tall, producing a mound of fleshy divided, mid-green leaves to 40cm long, with cut or lobed leaflets. Heart-shaped, rose-red, purple-pink or white flowers hang from arching succulent stems in late spring or early summer

Other common names
bleeding hearts
Chinaman's breeches
see moreDutchman's breeches
lady in the bath
locks and keys
lyre flower
seal flower
showy bleeding heart
Synonyms
Dicentra spectabilis
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Pink White Red Green
Summer Pink White Red Green
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

North–facing or East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Papaveraceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Potentially harmful
All parts cause stomach ache if ingested, the foliage may aggravate skin allergies. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus

Lamprocapnos are rhizomatous perennials with attractively divided leaves and pendent, heart-shaped flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Siberia, China, Korea

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist, fertile, humus-rich soil, preferably neutral or slightly alkaline; site in partial shade although will tolerate sun if the soil is reliably moist

Propagation

Propagate by division in early spring or after the leaves have died down or propagate by root cuttings in winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slug damage

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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