Dicentra spectabilis Description
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This taller growing Dicentra produces long pendulus racemes of white flowers during the spring months and then dying back as the summer arrives, making this an ideal plant for spring colour in herbaceous or mixed borders.
Dicentra spectabilis - Cultivation Notes
This low growing tuber forming herbaceous perennial prefers being located in a sheltered spot in dappled shade, planting in a moist humus rich soil. Cut back in dead foliage and flowers in autumn, propagate tired clumps by division of tubers in autumn and mulch every few years to feed. In shade this Dicentra can produce long blousey growth that may collapse so prepare to stake and tie plants.
This low growing woodland herbaceous perennial prefers being located in a sheltered spot in dappled shade. Plant in a moist humus rich garden soil that is neutral or alkaline. Cut back in dead foliage and flowers in autumn, propagate tired clumps by division and mulch regularly. Beware of seedlings which may not come true to colour - avoid by swiftly dead heading.
Strengths, Weaknesses & Design Usage
Strengths of Dicentra spectabilis:
- Tolerates permanently wet soil
Weaknesses of Dicentra spectabilis
- Will not tolerate exposed, cold or hot and sunny locations
- Does not tolerate very dry or very wet soils
Design & Plant Use for Dicentra spectabilis:
- Winter/early spring flowering herbaceous plant for early colour and extended seasonal interest
- Ideal for informal cottage garden style planting
View all the plants listed in Genus Dicentra
View other herbaceous flowers with red flowers, or herbaceous flowers with medium green foliage