Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Dicentra formosa
Pacific Bleeding Heart
- Family
- Papaveraceae
- Height
- 12 to 18 in
- Width
- 18 to 24 in
- Flower color
- Rose pink to lavender pink with white inner tips
- Foliage color
- Soft blue-green to gray-green, finely divided fernlike leaves
- Bloom time
- Mid spring through early summer
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Moderate moisture
- Maintenance
- Low, remove spent flower stems to encourage continued blooming; cut back foliage if it declines in summer heat
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 3 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees, hummingbirds
About this plant
Dicentra formosa produces graceful sprays of heart-shaped flowers in shades of rosy pink to lavender pink, each dangling from gently arching stems. Finely divided, blue-green foliage forms soft mounds that remain attractive throughout the growing season, adding a delicate, fernlike texture to shaded spaces.
Blooming from mid-spring into early summer, this species is native to western North America. It is commonly used in woodland gardens, shade borders, and naturalized plantings, where its long flowering period blends easily with spring bulbs and native perennials. The airy habit allows it to weave naturally among companion plants, bringing extended seasonal color and softness to partially shaded landscapes.
Works well in
Woodland Gardens · Under Trees · Native Gardens · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Blechnums · Omphalodes · Epimediums · Foamflowers · Brunneras · Maianthemums
Design tip
Allow this native perennial to mingle naturally with neighboring woodland plants instead of confining it to formal groupings. The relaxed arrangement creates gentle transitions between spring ephemerals and longer-lasting foliage, giving shaded gardens a more established, natural character.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at Heronswood Garden.
