Photo: Kurt Stüber [1], CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Western bleeding heart: when and how to prune
Dicentra formosa
Western bleeding heart is best pruned in March and July.
| Pruning months | March and July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | April–June |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Western bleeding heart: when to prune it?
Little is needed. If the foliage looks tired in July, cut it back. In March, clear away dead leaves.
Western bleeding heart: how to prune it?
- Cut spent flower stems off at the base.
- If the foliage turns yellow or untidy after flowering, cut it back to just above the ground and water: fresh leaves often follow.
- Remove dead foliage in March, before the new shoots appear.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Western bleeding heart flowers in April–June, when it attracts bees.
Caution: Work carefully in March: the young shoots are brittle and snap easily. Western bleeding heart is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Western bleeding heart · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.