Ruby Gold Bleeding Heart

Ruby Gold Bleeding Heart (Dicentra 'Ruby Gold')

Ruby Gold Bleeding Heart (Dicentra 'Ruby Gold') is a luminous woodland perennial prized for its rare pairing of rich ruby red, heart shaped flowers and vibrant golden chartreuse foliage. Arching flowering stems cascade in mid to late spring above finely cut leaves, bringing high contrast color and elegant texture to shaded borders, woodland edges, and cottage gardens. After its dramatic spring display, the plant often rests quietly through summer heat, making space for later season companions.

Distinctive Features

Graceful strings of saturated red hearts with small white tips bloom for several weeks in cool spring weather, floating above fern like golden foliage in a fountain habit; the warm leaf tone brightens shade even out of bloom and reads beautifully from a distance.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to shade; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal.
• Soil: Rich, well drained, humus amended soil that retains 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 soften and wane in summer heat.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Ruby red blooms and golden foliage create a glowing centerpiece in shade.
• Woodland Gardens: Partners beautifully with hosta, brunnera, heuchera, and ferns.
• Shaded Borders: Fine texture bridges early bulbs and summer perennials.
• Cottage Gardens: Heirloom charm with vivid color contrast.
• Entry and Courtyard Beds: High visibility tones brighten low light areas.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly in spring; reduce as foliage naturally declines.
• Pruning: Remove spent flower stems; cut 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 Ruby Gold Bleeding Heart?

• Unique Color Combo: Ruby red blossoms over golden foliage for exceptional contrast.
• Graceful Habit: Arching stems and ferny leaves add refined texture.
• Shade Ready: Thrives where sun loving perennials struggle.
• Wildlife Friendly: Early nectar supports pollinators; foliage is usually avoided by deer.
• Easy Care: Reliable spring spectacle with simple seasonal cleanup.

Dicentra 'Ruby Gold' marries dramatic flower color with glowing foliage, delivering a showy yet effortless accent for shaded borders, woodland plantings, and cottage style designs.