Lamprocapnos alba

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White bleeding heart
Lamprocapnos alba
White bleeding heart
Taxonomy
Family Papaveraceae · Genus Lamprocapnos
Common Names
White bleeding heart
Context
nativeRegion
Cultivar derived from East Asian native Lamprocapnos spectabilis.
usdaZones
3–9
companionPlants
Hosta, Ferns, Astilbe, Pulmonaria
culturalUses
Valued as a spring ornamental for shade gardens; popular in cottage and woodland gardens.

Care

Care Requirements

LightPartial shade to dappled sunlight; tolerates full sun in cool climates.
WateringKeep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water deeply during dry spells.
SoilRich, humus-rich, well-draining soil with good moisture retention.
FertilizerApply balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity; avoid very dry air.
TemperatureThrives in cool to mild temperatures; protect from extreme heat.

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitClump-forming perennial with arching stems and finely divided foliage.
Mature Size60–90 cm tall (24–36 in) and 45–60 cm wide (18–24 in).
Growth RateModerate growth rate; reaches maturity in 2–3 years.
BloomingBlooms in late spring to early summer; produces pendant white, heart-shaped flowers.
DormancyGoes dormant in summer after flowering; foliage dies back.

Propagation

MethodsSeed, Division, Root cuttings
DifficultyEasy (by division), moderate (by seed or cuttings).
Best SeasonDivide or take cuttings in early spring or fall; sow seeds in autumn.

Maintenance & Notes

PruningRemove spent stems and yellowing foliage after dormancy.
RepottingRarely needed except when dividing clumps for propagation.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-free; occasional aphids or slugs; prone to root rot in poorly drained soils.
ToxicityToxic if ingested by humans or pets; may cause skin irritation.

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