Dicentra

Description

Dicentra is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants in the family Papaveraceae. It is commonly known as Bleeding Heart due to its unique heart-shaped flowers that appear in the spring and summer. The plant is native to Asia and North America and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Dicentra plants typically grow to be 1-3 feet tall and have fern-like leaves that are gray-green in color. The most distinctive feature of the plant is its heart-shaped flowers, which can be pink, white, or red in color. The flowers bloom in clusters on long stalks that hang down from the plant, giving it a unique appearance. The plant blooms in the spring and summer and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 2-9.

Care Guide

Dicentra plants require regular watering and fertilization to thrive. They prefer moist, well-draining soil and should be planted in an area that receives partial shade to full shade. The plant is hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as -40°F. In warmer climates, it is important to provide the plant with enough shade to prevent it from becoming too dry.

Water

Dicentra plants require regular watering, especially during periods of drought. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases.

Fertilization

Dicentra plants should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid using too much nitrogen, which can promote leaf growth at the expense of flower production.

Soil

Dicentra plants prefer moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0.

Sunlight

Dicentra plants prefer partial shade to full shade. Too much direct sunlight can lead to leaf burn and other damage.

Hardiness Zones

Dicentra plants are hardy in USDA hardiness zones 2-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Dicentra plants are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can be affected by a few common problems. The most common pests include aphids, slugs, and snails. Diseases that can affect Dicentra plants include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.

Habitat

Dicentra plants are native to Asia and North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky slopes. They are commonly grown as ornamental plants in gardens and landscapes.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Dicentra toxic to pets?

A: Yes, Dicentra plants are toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. The plant contains a toxic alkaloid called isoquinoline that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.

Q: Can Dicentra plants be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Dicentra plants can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.

Q: How do I propagate Dicentra plants?

A: Dicentra plants can be propagated by division or by taking stem cuttings. Division should be done in the spring or fall, and stem cuttings should be taken in the summer.

Q: How long do Dicentra flowers last?

A: Dicentra flowers typically last for 4-6 weeks, depending on the cultivar and growing conditions.

Related Plants

• Fumaria
• Corydalis
• Sanguinaria
• Chelidonium
• Meconopsis

References

• “Dicentra.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a590.
• “Bleeding Heart.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac, www.almanac.com/plant/bleeding-heart.
• “Dicentra.” Garden Design, www.gardendesign.com/plants/dicentra.html.