Contents
Description
Lamprocapnos Spectabilis, commonly known as Bleeding Heart, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Papaveraceae family. It is native to Siberia, Japan, Korea, and northern China. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with arching stems that bear heart-shaped pink or white flowers. The flowers bloom in early spring and last for about 4-6 weeks. The plant also produces fern-like green foliage that turns yellow in fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Lamprocapnos |
Appearance
Lamprocapnos Spectabilis has a unique appearance with pink or white heart-shaped flowers that are suspended on arching stems. The flowers are about 1 inch long and have a protruding tip that resembles a drop of blood, thus giving the plant its common name, Bleeding Heart. The plant produces green foliage that is fern-like and divided into three leaflets. The leaves are about 3-4 inches long and turn yellow in the fall. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a good choice for borders, woodland gardens, and shaded areas.
Care Guide
Lamprocapnos Spectabilis is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water regularly and keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full shade and can tolerate some morning sun. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lamprocapnos Spectabilis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to slugs and snails, which can damage the foliage and flowers. To prevent slug and snail damage, apply slug bait around the plant or use a natural deterrent such as crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth.
Habitat
Lamprocapnos Spectabilis is native to Siberia, Japan, Korea, and northern China. It grows in woodland areas, along streams and rivers, and in shaded mountain valleys. The plant prefers cool and moist environments, making it a good choice for gardens in temperate climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lamprocapnos Spectabilis toxic?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic if ingested. It contains alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms in humans and animals.
Q: How often should I water Lamprocapnos Spectabilis?
A: Water the plant regularly and keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot and dry weather.
Q: Can Lamprocapnos Spectabilis grow in full sun?
A: No, the plant prefers partial to full shade and can tolerate some morning sun. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
Q: How do I propagate Lamprocapnos Spectabilis?
A: The plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in early spring or fall. Dig up the clump and separate the rhizomes with a knife or garden fork. Replant the divisions in a new location and water thoroughly.
Related Plants
– Lamprocapnos Spectabilis ‘Alba’- Lamprocapnos Spectabilis ‘Gold Heart’- Lamprocapnos Spectabilis ‘Valentine’- Lamprocapnos Vernus
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Lamprocapnos spectabilis. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=p980- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Lamprocapnos spectabilis. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11787/lamprocapnos-spectabilis/details- University of Illinois Extension. (n.d.). Bleeding Heart. Retrieved from https://extension.illinois.edu/hortanswers/plantdetail.cfm?PlantID=253&PlantTypeID=5
