Valentine® Bleeding Heart

Fall in love with the romantic charm of Valentine® Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis 'Hordival' PP #22,739)! This shade-loving perennial steals hearts every spring with its arching red stems lined with rows of glowing red heart-shaped blooms tipped in white. A refreshing twist on the classic Bleeding Heart, this vigorous variety brings bold color and old-fashioned grace to woodland, cottage, and low-maintenance gardens alike.

Each bloom dangles delicately, swaying in the soft spring breeze as if Ma Nature herself is sharing her love notes. The finely cut, blue-green foliage makes a perfect backdrop for those bright red hearts, offering texture and a cooling contrast. When in bloom, the Valentine® Bleeding Heart becomes the centerpiece of any shaded border, filling the garden with nostalgic charm and natural romance.

Developed from the beloved Dicentra spectabilis species, this cultivar honors generations of gardeners who have adored its timeless heart-shaped flowers. It’s a member of the Papaveraceae family, related to Poppies, and continues to symbolize undying affection and compassion in gardens across the world.

Key Features:

• Perennial with red heart-shaped flowers tipped in white
• Graceful red stems and finely cut blue-green foliage
• Blooms in mid to late spring; thrives in shady sites
• Excellent companion for Hosta, Coral Bells, and Ferns
• Symbol of love and affection; perfect for romantic gardens

Landscaping Uses

Valentine® Bleeding Heart grows 24–30 inches tall and wide, making it ideal for adding bursts of color to shaded garden spaces. Plant it where its brilliant blooms can be admired up close during your spring walks through the garden.

• Shade and woodland gardens
• Underplanting beneath Dogwood, Redbud, or Japanese Maple trees
• Paired with Foamflower, Hosta, and Ferns for layered texture
• Charming accent in shaded containers and courtyard gardens
• Wonderful with spring bulbs and early-blooming perennials

Care & Maintenance

USDA Growing Zones: 3–9. Valentine® Bleeding Heart is an herbaceous perennial that dies back after flowering, reemerging each spring. It thrives in partial to full shade and rich, well-drained soil. Cool, moist roots keep this beauty happiest, while consistent moisture encourages lush growth and longer bloom times.

• Planting Time: Spring or fall
• Sun Requirements: Partial to full shade; avoid harsh afternoon sunlight
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil; dislikes heavy clay or soggy roots
• Moisture Needs: Keep soil evenly moist; use the Finger Test to check soil moisture; new plants need regular watering their first year
• Mulch: Apply a 3–4 inch layer of bark or leaf mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature; learn more here
• Fertilization: Add compost or a balanced slow-release fertilizer each spring
• Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms and remove yellowing foliage in the fall for cleanliness and tidiness
• Division: Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring or fall
• Special Perks: Deer and rabbit resistant, attracts hummingbirds, hummingbird-friendly, easy-care, and shade-tolerant
• Summer Dormancy: In heat and more sun, these tender perennials can go dormant but return once cooler temps arrive.

Don’t forget to order your Nature Hills Root Booster to give your Valentine® Bleeding Heart lifelong mycorrhizal root support and help it thrive for years to come. Read more care info here!

Romance in Every Red Heart

With its vivid red blooms and graceful habit, Valentine® Bleeding Heart brings passion and nostalgia to every spring garden. A symbol of enduring love and beauty, this show-stopping perennial adds warmth and whimsy to shaded spaces. Order your Valentine® Bleeding Heart today and let Nature Hills deliver this sweetheart straight to your doorstep!

Valentine® Bleeding Heart | Nature Hills

Brilliant red heart-shaped flowers and graceful stems bring passion to shady gardens. Buy Valentine® Bleeding Heart now at NatureHills.com.

FAQs

• Is Valentine® Bleeding Heart a perennial? Yes, it’s a hardy perennial that dies back after blooming and reappears each spring.
• When does Valentine® Bleeding Heart bloom? It blooms in mid to late spring with vibrant red heart-shaped flowers tipped in white.
• Does Valentine® Bleeding Heart prefer sun or shade? It thrives in partial to full shade, with protection from afternoon sun.
• Is Valentine® Bleeding Heart deer resistant? Yes, it’s generally resistant to deer and rabbits.
• Can Valentine® Bleeding Heart grow in containers? Absolutely! Use a deep pot with rich, moist soil in a shaded area for best results.