bleeding heart
Dicentra 'Red Fountain'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 8
Flowers:
Red Flowers
Sun:
Part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Bleeding heart (Dicentra 'Red Fountain') should be watered when soil is dry to the touch, about 2 inches down. The amount of water will vary depending on the environment, but a good general guideline is to aim for 1 inch of water per week. If temperatures are warm, you may need to up this amount slightly. Water deeply, as this will encourage the plant’s roots to grow deep into the soil. Let the liquid soak in and then water again – this ensures the soil becomes properly saturated. Avoid over-watering as this can cause root rot or stem and leaf fungus.
sunlight
Bleeding heart (Dicentra 'Red Fountain') requires 6-8 hours of full sun per day, from mid-morning until mid-afternoon, during the growing season. The plant benefits from partial afternoon shade in areas of extremely hot summers. Too much sun and heat can cause the leaves to yellow and weaken the stems. In cooler climates, with less intense sun, it can tolerate full sun all day. During periods of extreme heat and excessive sunlight, some light shade may help protect the delicate foliage.
pruning
Bleeding heart (Dicentra 'Red Fountain') should be pruned after flowering has finished, usually in late spring or early summer. Remove any faded blooms as they appear and cut the stems of flowering plants back to ground level. It is important not to cut off too much green growth as this will reduce flowering in the following season. Prune severely only if the plant begins to look overgrown and unkempt.
FAQ
How long does a bleeding heart plant live?
The Bleeding Heart plant is an attractive perennial flowering species with long-lasting displays of attractive flowers. It typically lives for between 2 and 5 years, but may live longer if given the right soil, sunlight, and water conditions. This is considered to be a relatively short lifespan in comparison to some other plants, but this can change depending on the individual plant and its environment.
Could bleeding heart grow in a hanging basket?
Yes, bleeding heart can grow in a hanging basket. The plant is a perennial and has graceful arching stems full of dangling blooms. It has small, heart shaped pink or white flowers that put on a show of color against the light green foliage and stems. When planting in a hanging basket, ensure the basket is large enough to provide the necessary root space and ample drainage. Only use a lightweight soil and make sure that it doesn't stay too wet.Bleeding heart is a beautiful choice for hanging baskets and requires very little maintenance.
Do bleeding heart flowers bloom all summer?
No, bleeding heart flowers typically do not bloom all summer. They tend to flower in late spring and then again in late summer or early fall, providing two distinct periods of blooming throughout the season. The flowers go into dormancy in the warmer months when temperatures are too high for them to flourish. During this resting phase, the plant will enter a period of dormancy where foliage will die back and the plant's energy reserves will be renewed.
Are bleeding heart flowers fragrant?
Bleeding Heart flowers are a popular garden variety native to North America and Europe, and although they are most noted for their unique heart-shaped flowers, they are not particularly known for their fragrance. These flowers produce a light, but barely noticeable fruity scent that is mostly lost on the human nose. If you are searching for fragrant flowers, consider buds with a stronger scent such as roses, lilac, and lilies.
Is bleeding heart a good plant for a cutting garden?
Yes, the Bleeding Heart plant is an excellent addition to a cutting garden. It produces tooth-shaped pink and white flowers that hang from a thin stem, making them perfect for cutting. The plant is also long-lasting in the garden and it can produce new blooms for up to four months during the warmer months. It grows easily in partial or full shade and requires little maintenance. Additionally, it can also be used to attract butterflies and hummingbirds to the garden.
Should I mulch around my bleeding heart plant?
Yes, it's a good idea to mulch around your bleeding heart plant. Mulch helps preserve soil moisture and keeps weeds away. It also helps to control soil temperature and improve soil structure, which can help your plant stay healthy and thrive. Be sure to use an organic mulch, such as bark chips or shredded leaves, and keep it a few inches away from the stems and foliage of the plant. You can also spread it in a circular pattern around the plant for a decorative look.
Could a bleeding heart grow in a greenhouse?
Yes, a bleeding heart can grow in a greenhouse. It is a perennial flowering plant that thrives in partial to full shade and average to moist soil conditions. Maintaining a stable temperature between 50-60F and adequate humidity can be a challenge in a greenhouse, but it can easily be achieved with proper ventilation and insulation. The potting mix should be well drained, yet holds moisture well so that the plant can get the necessary nutrients. A weekly dose of balanced fertilizer is recommended to keep the plant healthy and flowering throughout the season.
How many blooms can a bleeding heart plant produce in a season?
A bleeding heart plant can produce a plentiful amount of beautiful blooms throughout its bloom season, which typically runs from early spring to late summer in most areas. The number of blooms per plant can vary greatly, ranging from only a few to a massive amount, depending on the care and attention the plant receives. With the right conditions and adequate care, a single bleeding heart plant can produce over 50 blooms in a single season!
