Cupid Bleeding Heart

Cupid Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis 'Cupid')

Cupid Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis 'Cupid') is a compact woodland perennial cherished for strings of soft pink, heart shaped flowers that dangle from graceful, arching stems in mid to late spring. Finely cut, blue green foliage forms a tidy mound that lights up shaded borders, woodland edges, and courtyard plantings. Smaller and more space efficient than classic bleeding hearts, 'Cupid' delivers romantic spring color in tight garden spaces and containers.

Distinctive Features

Elegant chains of pastel pink hearts with tiny white tips bloom for several weeks in cool spring weather, floating above ferny foliage in a fountain like habit. After flowering, plants may naturally go summer dormant in heat, leaving room for later season companions to fill in.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to shade; protect from hot afternoon sun.
• Soil: Rich, well drained, humus amended soil with consistent moisture.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist during active growth, never waterlogged.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9.
• Mature Size: About 12 to 18 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide.
• Bloom Time: Mid to late spring; foliage may wane in summer heat.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Arching pink flower sprays create a luminous spring centerpiece in shade.
• Woodland Gardens: Pairs beautifully with hosta, fern, brunnera, and heuchera.
• Shaded Borders: Soft texture bridges spring bulbs and emerging perennials.
• Containers: Compact habit thrives in patio pots with dappled light.
• Cottage Gardens: Old fashioned charm that complements classic spring bloomers.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly in spring; reduce as foliage yellows naturally.
• Pruning: Remove spent stems; cut back foliage to the crown when it declines.
• Fertilizing: Top dress with compost each spring; add a balanced fertilizer if soils are lean.
• Mulching: Maintain a light mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool.
• Division: Divide clumps in early spring or fall only when vigor declines.

Why Choose Cupid Bleeding Heart?

• Compact Size: Scaled for borders, small gardens, and containers.
• Romantic Blooms: Classic pink hearts provide graceful spring drama.
• Shade Ready: Thrives where sun loving plants struggle.
• Wildlife Friendly: Spring nectar supports early pollinators; foliage is usually avoided by deer.
• Easy Care: Reliable performance with simple moisture, mulch, and seasonal cleanup.

Dicentra spectabilis 'Cupid' brings refined texture, soft pink bloom, and a compact habit to shaded spaces, delivering a timeless spring display that partners effortlessly with woodland companions.