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Description
Lamprocapnos Spectabilis Alba is commonly known as White Bleeding Heart. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Papaveraceae. This plant is a cultivar of the more common Pink Bleeding Heart. It is native to China, Korea, and Japan. White Bleeding Heart is a popular garden plant because of its attractive flowers and foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Lamprocapnos |
Appearance
Lamprocapnos Spectabilis Alba grows up to 2-3 feet in height and width. The plant has deeply lobed, green leaves that are approximately 3-4 inches long. The white flowers are heart-shaped and hang from arching stems. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer and last for several weeks. The plant prefers cool temperatures and will die back in the summer heat.
Care Guide
Water: White Bleeding Heart prefers consistently moist soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth and flowering.
Soil: White Bleeding Heart prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight as it can damage the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: White Bleeding Heart can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
White Bleeding Heart is susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. Pests such as aphids, slugs, and snails can also be a problem. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of damage or disease and treat accordingly.
Habitat
Lamprocapnos Spectabilis Alba is native to China, Korea, and Japan. It prefers cool, moist environments and can be found growing in woodland areas and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lamprocapnos Spectabilis Alba be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. However, it may require more frequent watering and fertilization than plants grown in the ground.
Q: How often should I prune my White Bleeding Heart?
A: Prune the plant after it has finished flowering to remove any dead or damaged foliage. This will help to promote new growth and keep the plant looking tidy.
Q: How long does it take for White Bleeding Heart to bloom?
A: The plant typically blooms in late spring or early summer and the flowers can last for several weeks.
Q: Can White Bleeding Heart be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Lamprocapnos Spectabilis
- Lamprocapnos Spectabilis ‘Valentine’
- Lamprocapnos Spectabilis ‘Gold Heart’
References
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Division of Extension. (n.d.). White Bleeding Heart. Retrieved from https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/white-bleeding-heart/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Lamprocapnos spectabilis ‘Alba’. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j190
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Lamprocapnos spectabilis ‘Alba’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/87825/Lamprocapnos-spectabilis-Alba/Details
