Valentine Bleeding Heart

Valentine Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis 'Valentine')

Valentine Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis 'Valentine') is a dramatic woodland perennial celebrated for strings of deep red, heart shaped flowers that dangle from rich burgundy stems in spring. Clean, blue green foliage forms a graceful mound that brings high contrast color and refined texture to shaded borders, woodland edges, and cottage gardens. A modern selection of the classic species, it delivers a luminous spring display before resting quietly through summer heat.

Distinctive Features

Elegant sprays of saturated red hearts with tiny white tips bloom for several weeks in cool spring weather, arching above fern textured leaves; dark wine colored stems intensify the flower color and add architectural presence even in bud. After flowering, plants may naturally go summer dormant, allowing later season companions to fill the space.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to shade; protect from hot afternoon sun.
• Soil: Rich, well drained, humus amended soil that maintains even moisture.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist during active growth, never waterlogged.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9.
• Mature Size: About 24 to 30 inches tall and 24 to 30 inches wide.
• Bloom Time: Mid to late spring; foliage may wane in summer heat.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Burgundy stems and red hearts create a glowing centerpiece in shade.
• Woodland Gardens: Partners beautifully with hosta, brunnera, heuchera, and ferns.
• Shaded Borders: Soft texture bridges early bulbs and summer perennials.
• Cottage Gardens: Heirloom romance with modern, richer color.
• Cut Flowers: Graceful arching stems for fresh, short lived arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly in spring; reduce as foliage naturally declines.
• Pruning: Remove spent flower stems; cut back foliage to the crown when it yellows.
• Fertilizing: Top dress with compost in early 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 Valentine Bleeding Heart?

• Rich Red Blooms: Deeply colored hearts and dark stems offer exceptional contrast.
• Graceful Habit: Arching sprays and ferny foliage add refined texture.
• Shade Tolerant: Thrives where sun loving plants struggle.
• Wildlife Friendly: Early nectar supports pollinators; foliage is usually avoided by deer.
• Easy Care: Reliable spring spectacle with minimal maintenance.

Dicentra spectabilis 'Valentine' pairs dramatic flower color with elegant architecture, delivering a standout, low maintenance accent for shaded borders, woodland plantings, and cottage style designs.