Dicentra

Dicentra is a genus of flowering plants in the poppy family (Papaveraceae), subfamily Fumarioideae. It comprises about 10 to 20 species of herbaceous perennials native to temperate regions of Asia and North America. The best-known members are the bleeding-heart types, including Dicentra spectabilis (often cited as Lamprocapnos spectabilis in some classifications), Dicentra formosa (western bleeding heart), and Dicentra cucullaria (Dutchman's breeches).

Plants form low clumps from creeping rhizomes. The foliage is usually pinnate with oval, lobed leaflets. Flower stems rise above the foliage in spring, bearing pendulous, heart-shaped flowers with two long pink or white inner petals and a curved outer part, typically on a slender raceme. Colors range from pale pink and white to deep rose; some forms are bi-colored.

Natural habitat includes woodland edges, damp meadows, and rocky slopes in temperate forests; they prefer moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter and partial shade. They are relatively short-lived in extreme heat but can persist for many years in the right conditions.

In cultivation, Dicentra is valued for early-season color and delicate foliage. They are typically propagated by division in fall or spring, or by seed (which may require cold stratification). Most species resent disturbance; mulch helps. All parts are poisonous if ingested by humans or animals.

Taxonomy and nomenclature: The genus has undergone reclassification, with some species moved to Lamprocapnos. Dicentra remains a widely used name in horticulture for several species and cultivars.