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Description
Dicentra formosa, commonly known as the Pacific bleeding heart, is a herbaceous perennial flowering plant native to western North America. It belongs to the Papaveraceae family and is characterized by its delicate, heart-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The plant typically grows up to 60 cm tall and spreads up to 90 cm wide, producing mounds of fern-like leaves and drooping clusters of pink or white flowers. The plant’s foliage turns yellow and dies back in the fall, but the roots remain alive and dormant in preparation for the next growing season.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Dicentra |
Appearance
The Pacific bleeding heart has a unique appearance due to its heart-shaped flowers, which hang from arching stems that emerge from a clump of lobed, blue-green leaves. The leaves are typically 15-25 cm long and 10-15 cm wide, and they turn yellow and die back in the fall. The flowers are typically 2-3 cm long, with two outer petals that form a heart shape and two inner petals that form a spur. The blooms are pink or white and are produced in clusters that can be up to 30 cm long. The plant typically blooms in late spring or early summer.
Care Guide
The Pacific bleeding heart is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula.
- Soil: The plant prefers rich, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic (pH 6.0-6.5).
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full shade, although it can tolerate some morning sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: The Pacific bleeding heart is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pacific bleeding heart is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to slugs and snails, which can damage the leaves and flowers. Here are some tips for controlling these pests:
- Slugs and snails: Handpick the pests and remove them from the plant, or use a slug bait or trap.
Habitat
The Pacific bleeding heart is native to western North America, where it can be found growing in moist, shady areas such as woodlands, streambanks, and meadows. The plant is also commonly grown as an ornamental in gardens and landscapes, where it adds a pop of color to shady areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Pacific bleeding heart be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is kept consistently moist.
Q: When should I prune my Pacific bleeding heart?
A: The plant does not require pruning, but you can remove dead flowers and stems as needed to tidy up the plant.
Q: Can the Pacific bleeding heart be propagated by division?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Dig up the clump of roots and separate it into smaller sections, making sure each section has a healthy root system and some foliage. Replant the divisions in well-drained soil and keep them consistently moist until they are established.
Q: Is the Pacific bleeding heart toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested. It contains alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
Related Plants
- Dicentra eximia (fringed bleeding heart)
- Dicentra spectabilis (old-fashioned bleeding heart)
- Dicentra cucullaria (Dutchman’s breeches)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Dicentra formosa
- RHS: Dicentra formosa
- University of Minnesota Extension: Pacific Bleeding Heart
