Dicentra spectabilis Gold Heart
Dicentra 'Gold Heart' photo courtesy of Walters Gardens
Old Fashioned Bleeding Hearts

Dicentra 'Gold Heart' is a bright twist on a classic perennial. The radiant yellow foliage creates the perfect back drop for arching sprays of large pink and white heart-shaped blossoms. The foliage is brightest in the spring, mellowing a bit as the summer progresses. Depending on the season and the amount of water it gets, it may go summer dormant.

  • Height: 46 - 71 cm (18 - 28 in)
  • Spread: 46 - 61 cm (18 - 24 in)
  • Cold Hardiness: Zone 3
  • Sun or Shade: partial sun to partial shade
  • Bloom Time: late spring
  • Leaf Colour: gold
  • Bloom Colour: pink
  • Critter Resistance: deer

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Dicentra is a woodland plant that likes rich, organic soil that is moist but well drained. At planting time amend the soil with compost. This Dicentra frequently goes summer dormant although it is a little more enduring that the other spectabilis varieties. We situate it toward the back of the border where it will be hidden once the large leaved hostas and other background perennials appear. It can be divided in early fall.

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