Photo: Paul Hermans, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Bleeding heart: when and how to prune
Lamprocapnos spectabilis
Bleeding heart is best pruned in June–July.
| Pruning months | June–July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | April–June |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Bleeding heart: when to prune it?
Faded flower sprays in June; the yellowed foliage in July, when the plant goes dormant.
Bleeding heart: how to prune it?
- Cut faded sprays back to the leaves, unless you want to collect seed.
- Leave the foliage as long as it is green: it feeds the roots for next year’s flowers.
- In July, cut yellowed stems and leaves back to just above the ground.
- Use the cuttings as mulch under shrubs or put them on the compost heap.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: June–July.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.
Caution: Wear gloves: the sap can irritate the skin.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Bleeding heart · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.