Species Dutchman's breeches
lavender flowers with lime-olive foliage and  brown stems

Dutchman's breeches

Dicentra cucullaria

Dutchman's breeches is an amazing plant species that will bloom early in the spring in North America. These unique white and yellow flowers appear to be upside-down, like a man wearing breeches. It's often spotted in wooded areas, open fields, and along riverbanks, and often grows in colonies. It's a desirable and attractive plant, and is even listed as the state wildflower of Iowa! Dutchman's breeches is an elegant and versatile perennial that is easy to care for, making it a great choice for gardeners of all levels. With its bright yellow-white blooms and unique shape, it's no wonder Dutchman's breeches is so beloved!

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Layering Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 7

Flowers:

White to pink Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Part shade,full shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Dutchman's Breeches should be watered regularly during the spring and summer and more sparingly in the fall and winter. During the growing season, water the plant deeply and thoroughly yet be mindful not to overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly in between waterings. During the winter season, water only when the top inch of soil becomes dry. Check the moisture levels of the soil before watering as this species is particularly susceptible to root rot. Water the soil around the roots instead of directly on the foliage, and avoid getting the foliage wet.

sunlight

Dutchman's Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) are best grown in areas that receive partial to full shade and bright, indirect sunlight. They require approximately 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, typically in the morning or late afternoon, to flower optimally. Avoid exposing Dutchman's Breeches to the intense midday sun, as this can leave them sunburned and scorched. The plants may tolerate shade and still flower, but growth and flowering will be less profuse. As the summer approaches, some shade during the hottest part of the day may be beneficial.

pruning

Dutchman's breeches should be pruned back after flowering. This plant species typically blooms in early spring, so pruning should be done in late spring, around May or June. Using pruning shears, cut back the flowering stems but leave any newly developing foliage. Don't cut back the foliage too much, however, since this can reduce the amount of blooms the following year. If the plant has lost its shape or become overly dense, the dead stems and canes can be cut away to help the plant regain proper air circulation.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Dutchman's breeches typically start flowering in April.

Hardiness Map