Bleeding Heart Dicentra formosa 'Bacchanal'

Water

The Pacific Bleeding Heart should be watered thoroughly, with the top inch of soil allowed to dry out between watering sessions. It usually requires watering every week, but this can vary with local conditions such as temperature and humidity. A deep watering that provides about one to two gallons of water to the root zone is ideal, ensuring moisture reaches the plant's deep roots. In the warmer months, you may need to water more frequently, especially if the plant is in a sunnier location or if it's particularly hot. Cut back on watering in the winter months when the plant is not actively growing.

Light

The Pacific Bleeding Heart thrives in partial shade to full shade conditions. It's best planted in a spot that is sheltered from intense afternoon sun, which can scorch its delicate foliage. Morning light with dappled sun or shade throughout the day is ideal for this plant. Avoid deep, dark shade as this can lead to poor flowering.

Temperature

The Pacific Bleeding Heart prefers moderate temperatures and will grow best when daytime temperatures are between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Nighttime temperatures should not drop below 30 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid damage to the plant. It is hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9, indicating an ability to survive in minimum temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, although it will go dormant in the winter.

Pruning

Pruning the Pacific Bleeding Heart should be done to remove dead or damaged foliage and to maintain plant health. It is best to prune after the plant has finished flowering, usually in late summer or fall. Cut back the foliage to the ground level; this helps to prevent disease and prepares the plant for its dormant period. Pruning annually or as needed will also promote vigorous growth and better flowering in the following season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

For Western Bleeding Heart, the best soil mix is well-draining, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). A mix of loam, peat or leaf mold, and perlite or coarse sand is ideal.

Repotting

Western Bleeding Heart rarely needs repotting and prefers to be left undisturbed. If necessary, repot in spring every 3-4 years or when it outgrows its container.

Humidity & Misting

Western Bleeding Heart thrives in average to high humidity levels, aiming for around 40-50% relative humidity for optimal growth and flower development.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in part-shade, moist well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Dicentra formosa 'Bacchanal', commonly known as the 'Bacchanal' Pacific bleeding heart, begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in cool, moist soil conditions of its native woodland habitat. Once germinated, the plant develops a rosette of fern-like foliage, which is then followed by the emergence of arching stems bearing heart-shaped flowers in shades of deep red or burgundy in the spring to early summer. After flowering, the plant sets seed in the form of a capsule which, when mature, disperses seeds that may lie dormant until the following spring. During the summer, the 'Bacchanal' Pacific bleeding heart may enter a period of dormancy, especially in hotter climates, with the foliage dying back until cooler conditions prevail. The plant will remain dormant through the winter months, storing energy in its underground structures such as rhizomes or tubers. With the return of spring, the cycle begins anew with fresh foliage growth, leading up to another flowering season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-early summer

• Propogation: The Dicentra formosa 'Bacchanal', commonly known as the Pacific Bleeding Heart, is typically propagated by division, which is best done in the early spring or fall. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant from the ground with a shovel or garden fork, ensuring a generous amount of soil is kept around the roots. Once lifted, use your hands or a sharp knife to divide the root ball into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. These divisions can then be replanted in the garden at the same soil depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them in their new locations.