Dicentra eximia – Wild Bleeding Heart; Fringed Bleeding Heart

Dicentra eximia, or Fringed Bleeding Heart, is a favorite in shade gardens. This Eastern US native, at up to 15″ tall, stands out with a subdued pink, uniquely-shaped bloom. The soft color adds charm to any garden for many months. Inflorescences are a dusty yet showy pink and appear in clusters on leafless stems. Individual flowers are heart-shaped, and the inner petals create what looks similar to a drop of blood at the bottom of each heart-shaped flower. The long blooming period and shade tolerance of this selection add to its appeal.

Flowers April to July, but reblooming often occurs in warmer climates when the weather cools in late summer/early fall. Foliage is light-green and heavily dissected, a fern-like leaf. Colonizes slowly by rhizomes to form a clump. An excellent pollinator plant that pairs well with Columbine (Aquilegia) and Jacob’s Ladder (Polemonium). Naturally occurs on forest floors, rocky woods, and on ledges in the Appalachian Mountains. A stunning choice for border plantings, woodland gardens, rock gardens, and wildflower gardens.

Prefers Sun to Part shade. Requires well-drained soils. Low Maintenance with no serious insect or disease issues.