Formerly known as Dicentra spectabilis, this is the quintessential bleeding heart variety recognized by its arching stems lined with perfectly heart-shaped, pink and white flowers. It is a herbaceous perennial, meaning its foliage dies back completely in the summer heat, especially in warmer climates. This is a normal part of its life cycle as the plant goes dormant to conserve energy. It thrives in partial to full shade and prefers rich, moist, well-draining soil. Reaching 2-3 feet in height and spread, it makes a stunning mid-spring focal point in woodland gardens or shaded borders. The classic pink and white form is most common, but the pure white cultivar, Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Alba', is an excellent choice for brightening deep shade.
Native to the eastern United States, Dicentra eximia offers a different growth habit and a much longer display period than its common cousin. This variety forms tidy, compact mounds of finely cut, fern-like grey-green foliage that remains attractive throughout the growing season if conditions are favorable. Its flowers are smaller, narrower, and less perfectly heart-shaped, but they are produced in abundance from mid-spring continuously into fall. This extended bloom period makes it a valuable plant for long-season color in partial to full shade gardens. It is more tolerant of sun in cooler climates, provided the soil remains consistently moist. It typically grows 12-18 inches tall and spreads slowly to form colonies.
A spectacular sport of the common bleeding heart, 'Gold Heart' is prized primarily for its brilliant chartreuse-yellow to golden foliage. This vibrant foliage illuminates shady garden corners from the moment it emerges in spring. The plant produces the same classic pink and white heart-shaped flowers as Lamprocapnos spectabilis, which create a stunning contrast against the bright leaves. Like its parent, it is a spring ephemeral and will go dormant in summer. Its cultural requirements are identical: rich, moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade. The intense sun can scorch the delicate golden leaves, so protection from afternoon sun is crucial.
While not a typical "heart," this native North American ephemeral is a close relative and a charming addition to a naturalized woodland garden. The common name comes from its unique white flowers, which resemble a pair of upside-down breeches. It grows from a small, granule-like structure called a corm and features finely dissected, fern-like foliage. It blooms very early in spring, often before the trees have fully leafed out, and completes its entire above-ground life cycle before early summer, going dormant until the next year. It prefers dappled shade and rich, moist, acidic soil and is perfect for planting around deciduous trees and shrubs.
