Bleeding heart, Dutchman's breeches
Lamprocapnos spectabilis

Family: Papaveraceae

What it is like

A herb. It keeps growing from year to year. It grows 60-120 cm high and 45-60 cm across. The stems are thin. The leaves are grey-green and divided. The flowers are dangling pink hearts with white petals.

There are about 20 Dicentra species.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy. Because it is brittle it needs a sheltered position. It is often grown in shady places amongst rocks. It suits hardiness zones 6-9.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Australia, Britain, Canada, China, Europe, Japan (country/location of origin), Korea, North America, Siberia (country/location of origin), Tasmania

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Leaves

How it is grown

It can be grown by dividing the roots in spring. They can also be grown from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Carrying-bag tree Peony, Geumnanghwa, Hebaomudan, Lady's locket, Lyre flower

Synonyms

Capnorchis spectabilis (L.) Borkh.; Corydalis spectabilis Pers.; Dicentra spectabilis (L.) Lem.; Diclytra spectabilis (L.) DC.; Dielytra spectabilis (L.) G. Don; Dielytra spectabilis (L.) DC.; Eucapnos spectabilis (L.) Siebold & Zucc.; Fumaria spectabilis L.; Hedycapnos spectabilis Planch.;