Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Gold Heart'

Gold Heart Bleeding Heart

Family: Papaveraceae
Height: 24 to 36 in
Width: 24 to 36 in
Flower color: Soft pink heart shaped blooms with white inner petals
Foliage color: Bright golden yellow finely divided fernlike deciduous leaves
Bloom time: Mid to late spring
Light: Partial shade to full shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering
Growing zone: USDA zones 3 to 9
Wildlife: Bees and other early season pollinators

About this plant

Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Gold Heart' unfolds gracefully arching stems lined with pendent, heart-shaped rose-pink flowers tipped in white, opening in mid- to late spring above luminous golden foliage. The glowing leaves hold their color through the flowering period, bringing warmth and gentle light to shaded borders and woodland plantings during the height of the spring season.

Selected in modern cultivation from a species native to forested regions of China and the Korean Peninsula, it reflects a long tradition of garden appreciation in temperate climates. Seasonal bloom followed by summer dormancy allows surrounding perennials to carry visual interest forward as the year progresses.

Works well in

Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Foamflowers · Epimediums · Hostas · Solomon's seal · Ferns · Lungworts

Design tip

The early flowers arrive when the garden is still waking up, so give it a spot you pass often in spring. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen at Powellswood Garden.