Dicentra spectabilis ‘Valentine®’
Overview
Uses: Woodland gardens, shaded borders, cottage gardens, underplanting trees, spring focal points
Benefits: Deep red, heart-shaped blooms with contrasting white tips hang from graceful arching stems. Reliable spring performance brings bold color to partially shaded spaces.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–9
Sun: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Mounding, Arching — upright stems with cascading flowers.
Bloom Color: Red and White
Foliage Color: Blue-Green
Mature Height: 2–2.5'
Mature Width: 1.5–2'
Bloom Season: Spring
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
‘Valentine®’ Bleeding Heart delivers dramatic spring color in the quiet spaces of the garden.
Arching stems carry rows of deep red, heart-shaped flowers tipped in white, creating a striking contrast against soft blue-green foliage. The elegant form pairs beautifully with ferns, hostas, and other shade-loving companions.
After flowering in late spring, the plant naturally enters dormancy as temperatures rise, making it well suited to layered woodland plantings where later-emerging perennials can fill in around it.
Care
Dicentra spectabilis ‘Valentine®’ Care
Plant in partial shade or dappled woodland light. Morning sun is tolerated in cooler climates, but avoid intense afternoon heat.
Grow in humus-rich, well-drained soil that stays consistently moist, especially during active growth in spring.
Fertilization is typically minimal, but a light application of slow release fertilizer in early spring can support vigorous growth.
After blooming, foliage will gradually yellow and die back as the plant enters dormancy. Cut back spent stems once they decline naturally.
Size
What Size is Dicentra spectabilis ‘Valentine®’ for Sale Online?
Plants ship in high-quality grow pots appropriate to their stage of growth. Size at shipment varies slightly by season. For current pot sizes and availability, please contact us.
How Large Does Dicentra spectabilis ‘Valentine®’ Grow?
At maturity, plants typically reach 2–2.5 feet tall and 1.5–2 feet wide, forming a graceful, arching clump in shaded garden beds.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
Common names include Bleeding Heart and Valentine Bleeding Heart.
Is this plant suitable for woodland gardens?
Yes. Its preference for partial shade and humus-rich soil makes it a natural fit for Perennials used in woodland-style plantings and shaded borders.
Does it attract pollinators?
The early-season blooms can attract bees and other spring pollinators to the garden.
What happens after it blooms?
After flowering in late spring, the plant gradually enters dormancy as temperatures rise. Consider pairing it with later-emerging shade plants to maintain continuous garden interest.
