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Description
Dicentra Formosa King Of Hearts is a unique and beautiful perennial plant that is native to the western coastal regions of North America. It is a member of the Papaveraceae family and is also commonly known as the Western Bleeding Heart. This plant produces delicate, heart-shaped flowers that dangle from arching stems, creating a stunning display in any garden or landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Dicentra |
Appearance
Dicentra Formosa King Of Hearts has a mounding habit and typically grows to be about 12-18 inches tall and wide. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a blue-green color that provides a beautiful backdrop for the flowers. The flowers themselves are pink and white and have a unique shape that resembles a heart with a droplet hanging from the bottom. They bloom in late spring and early summer and attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Dicentra Formosa King Of Hearts is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It also likes partial to full shade, making it a great choice for woodland gardens. Watering should be done regularly, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. This plant is hardy in zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dicentra Formosa King Of Hearts is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be prone to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. To prevent this, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If powdery mildew does occur, treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Dicentra Formosa King Of Hearts is native to the western coastal regions of North America, from Alaska to California. It can be found growing in moist, shaded areas like woodlands, stream banks, and meadows.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dicentra Formosa King Of Hearts be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but make sure the container is large enough and has good drainage.
Q: How often should Dicentra Formosa King Of Hearts be fertilized?
A: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: How much sunlight does Dicentra Formosa King Of Hearts need?
A: It prefers partial to full shade.
Q: When does Dicentra Formosa King Of Hearts bloom?
A: It blooms in late spring and early summer.
Related Plants
- Dicentra ‘Luxuriant’
- Dicentra spectabilis ‘Valentine’
- Dicentra eximia ‘Alba’
- Dicentra cucullaria
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bleeding-heart/bleeding-heart-care.htm
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/dicentra_formosa.shtml
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k590
