White Bleeding Heart

Now classified as Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Alba', still known as Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba, a graceful and elegant perennial prized for its pure white, heart-shaped flowers that hang delicately from arching stems in late spring to early summer. These nodding blooms float above soft green, finely divided foliage, creating a luminous effect in shady or woodland gardens.

This white-flowered form of the traditional Bleeding Heart is perfect for brightening darker areas of the garden. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers a sheltered, partially shaded position. After flowering, the foliage may go dormant in midsummer, so it's ideal to combine with later-emerging plants. A beautiful, deer-resistant plant that also attracts pollinators.

Site: Shady borders, woodland gardens, cottage-style planting
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained
Position: Partial shade (can tolerate sun if kept moist)
Season of interest: Late spring to early summer (flowering)
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 60–90 cm (24–36 in) Spread: 45–60 cm (18–24 in)