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Bleeding hearts are charming perennial plants known for their delicate, heart-shaped flowers that dangle from arching stems. They are popular among gardeners for their graceful appearance and relatively easy care. If you’re new to gardening and eager to add these lovely plants to your garden, choosing the right variety is essential. Here are some of the best bleeding heart varieties for beginners to start growing today.
Why Choose Bleeding Hearts?
Bleeding hearts (genus Dicentra) thrive in shaded or partially shaded areas and prefer moist, well-drained soil. They are hardy and can bloom year after year with minimal maintenance. Their unique flowers and lush foliage make them a favorite for woodland gardens, borders, and containers.
Top Beginner-Friendly Bleeding Heart Varieties
- Dicentra spectabilis (Old-Fashioned Bleeding Heart)
- Dicentra formosa (Western Bleeding Heart)
- Dicentra spectabilis ‘Alba’ (White Bleeding Heart)
- Dicentra ‘Luxuriant’ (Lush Bleeding Heart)
Dicentra spectabilis (Old-Fashioned Bleeding Heart)
This classic variety features arching stems with vibrant pink, heart-shaped flowers. It blooms in late spring to early summer and is very tolerant of shade. Its robust nature makes it ideal for beginners.
Dicentra formosa (Western Bleeding Heart)
Native to western North America, this variety has fern-like foliage and produces smaller, pink or white flowers. It is more compact and blooms earlier than Dicentra spectabilis, making it a great choice for smaller gardens.
Dicentra spectabilis ‘Alba’ (White Bleeding Heart)
This elegant cultivar showcases white, heart-shaped flowers that add a touch of sophistication to any garden. It shares the same easy-care qualities as the pink variety.
Dicentra ‘Luxuriant’ (Lush Bleeding Heart)
‘Luxuriant’ is a hybrid that offers larger, more abundant flowers and vigorous growth. It is particularly resilient and suitable for beginners seeking a show-stopping display.
Growing Tips for Beginners
- Plant in partial shade for best results.
- Use rich, well-draining soil with organic matter.
- Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide plants every few years to maintain vigor.
- Allow foliage to die back naturally after blooming.
With the right variety and proper care, bleeding hearts can be a stunning and low-maintenance addition to your garden. Start with one of these beginner-friendly varieties and enjoy their enchanting blooms year after year.