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Description
Dicentra Spectabilis Alba, also known as White Bleeding Heart, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Papaveraceae family. This plant is native to Japan and is a variation of the classic Dicentra Spectabilis, which has pink flowers. White Bleeding Heart is a popular ornamental plant due to its elegant and delicate appearance. It can grow up to 60 cm in height and 60 cm in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Dicentra |
Appearance
White Bleeding Heart has fern-like green foliage that grows up to 60 cm in height. The leaves are deeply cut and lobed, and they have a soft texture. The flowers are white and heart-shaped, and they bloom in early spring. Each flower is about 2.5 cm long and dangles from a slender stalk. The petals are delicate and have a papery texture. The flowers are arranged in small clusters that hang from arching stems, giving the plant a graceful appearance.
Care Guide
To keep your White Bleeding Heart healthy, you need to provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some care tips:
Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water your plant regularly, especially during dry spells.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: White Bleeding Heart prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: This plant prefers partial to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: White Bleeding Heart is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
White Bleeding Heart is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by the following issues:
Aphids: These small insects can attack the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing damage. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat the foliage and flowers of the plant. Use slug bait to keep them away.
Crown Rot: This fungal disease can affect the roots and crown of the plant, causing it to wilt and die. Improve drainage to prevent this disease.
Habitat
White Bleeding Heart is native to Japan and is commonly found in woodland areas. It prefers partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil. This plant is well-suited to rock gardens, shade gardens, and woodland gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow White Bleeding Heart in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow White Bleeding Heart in a container as long as it has enough space to grow and the right growing conditions.
Q: How often should I fertilize my White Bleeding Heart?
A: You should fertilize your White Bleeding Heart once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can I propagate White Bleeding Heart by division?
A: Yes, you can propagate White Bleeding Heart by division in the spring or fall.
Q: Does White Bleeding Heart attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, White Bleeding Heart is a popular plant among bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:
- Dicentra Formosa
- Dicentra Eximia
- Dicentra Canadensis
- Dicentra Spectabilis
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bleeding-heart/white-bleeding-heart-info.htm
- https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/dicentra-spectabilis.html
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/5598/dicentra-spectabilis-alba/details
