Lamprocapnos spectabilis, known as Bleeding Heart, is a classic spring perennial valued for its distinctive heart-shaped flowers that hang from elegant arching stems.

The pink and white blooms appear above soft mounds of divided green foliage, bringing colour and structure to shady borders in late spring and early summer.

• Height: 80–100cm
• Spread: 60–90cm
• Flower colour: rose-pink with white inner petals
• Flowering time: late spring to early summer
• Position: partial shade or shade
• Soil: moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil

About Lamprocapnos spectabilis

Lamprocapnos spectabilis forms a clump of soft, divided mid-green leaves that can grow up to 40cm long.

From the centre of the plant, smooth arching stems develop. These carry rows of heart-shaped flowers that hang evenly along the stem.

The flowers are usually rose-pink with a white inner petal, creating the distinctive “bleeding heart” appearance.

This plant has long been grown in cottage gardens and woodland borders for its graceful form.

Common names include:

• Bleeding heart
• Bleeding hearts
• Dutchman's breeches
• Lady in the bath
• Locks and keys
• Lyre flower
• Seal flower
• Showy bleeding heart

The plant is also known under the botanical synonym:

• Dicentra spectabilis

Benefits for UK Wildlife

Lamprocapnos spectabilis can support early-season garden wildlife.

• Flowers can attract early pollinating insects
• Provides sheltered habitat in shady borders
• Works well in wildlife-friendly woodland planting

Combine with other shade plants to create a diverse woodland habitat.

Where to Grow Bleeding Heart

• Shaded garden borders
• Woodland gardens
• Under trees and shrubs
• Cottage garden planting
• Moist, sheltered beds

Allow space for the plant to form a full arching clump for the best display.

Planting Tips

• Plant rhizomes in spring or autumn.
• Choose a partially shaded or shaded location.
• Use humus-rich soil improved with compost or leaf mould.
• Plant with the crown just below soil level.
• Water regularly while plants establish.
• Mulch annually to help retain soil moisture.

The foliage may die back during warm summer weather. New growth returns the following spring.

Why Grow Lamprocapnos spectabilis

• Distinctive heart-shaped pink flowers
• Elegant arching stems
• Excellent plant for shade gardens
• Reliable perennial that forms larger clumps over time
• Classic cottage garden favourite

If you want a graceful flowering plant for shady borders, Lamprocapnos spectabilis provides a distinctive display each spring with its well-known heart-shaped blooms.