The bleeding heart (Lamprocapnos spectabilis, also Dicentra spectabilis) belongs to the poppy family. The ornamental perennial, which is very popular because of its unusual flowers (which is why the plant is also known as "lady in a bath"), grows in dense groups and is a fascinating eye-catcher in partially shaded borders and on the edge of trees. The perennial is quite easy to propagate.

There are several ways to multiply the Bleeding Heart

share a bleeding heart

The plant can be easily divided in early spring or after moving in in late summer. The ideal time is either before they sprout or directly after flowering in July/August. Make the division as follows:

  • Carefully dig up the perennial with a digging fork.
  • Try to dig up as many roots as possible.
  • Shake off the sticking soil well.
  • Divide the rootstock using a sharp knife or spade.
  • Each section should have at least one shoot with strong roots.
  • Plant the sections immediately in their previously determined new location.
  • Protect the sensitive plants from ground frost.

Propagation by cuttings

You can achieve a large number of young plants by propagating with cuttings. The best time to do this is in summer, right after flowering. In addition, propagation by root cuttings is possible.

  • Separate an approximately 15 centimeter long shoot from the mother plant.
  • Place it in a glass of water in a bright spot.
  • Change the water daily.
  • After rooting, plant the cuttings in a pot with a mixture of sand and humus.
  • Overwinter the young plants in a frost-free place in a cool, bright room.
  • Plant out the young plants in spring.

Sow a bleeding heart

If you do not remove faded shoots, but leave them on the plant, they will produce fruit and seeds if the site conditions are good. The Bleeding Heart is one of the perennials that are quite reliably self-seeding. When sowing by hand, please note that it is a cold germ.

tips

If you want to cut cuttings or divide the plant, it is best to wear gloves - the bleeding heart is poisonous and can trigger a contact allergy in sensitive people.

Category:

Vegetable garden