Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Alba' (White Bleeding Heart) Rhizomes
Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Alba', known as White Bleeding Heart, is a graceful clump-forming perennial grown for its arching stems of distinctive heart-shaped white flowers.
The blooms hang delicately from curved stems above soft pale green foliage, creating an elegant display in late spring and early summer.
- Height: 80–100cm
- Spread: 60–90cm
- Flower colour: white
- Flowering time: late spring to early summer
- Position: partial shade or shade
- Soil: moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
About Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Alba'
Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Alba' forms a soft mound of divided pale green leaves that can reach around 40cm in length.
From this foliage rise gently arching stems carrying rows of delicate white heart-shaped flowers. The flowers hang evenly along the stems, creating a graceful cascading effect.
This variety is the white-flowered form of the well-known bleeding heart plant.
You may also see it listed under the botanical synonym:
- Dicentra spectabilis 'Alba'
Once established, the plant forms larger clumps and returns reliably each spring.
Benefits for UK Wildlife
Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Alba' contributes to shade garden biodiversity.
- Flowers can attract early-season pollinating insects
- Provides cover for insects in shaded borders
- Works well in wildlife-friendly woodland planting
Combine with other shade plants such as ferns and woodland perennials to support a wider range of garden wildlife.
Where to Grow White Bleeding Heart
- Shaded garden borders
- Woodland gardens
- Under trees and shrubs
- Shaded cottage gardens
- Moist, sheltered beds
This plant looks particularly effective when allowed space to form a full arching clump.
Planting Tips
- Plant rhizomes in spring or autumn.
- Choose a partially shaded or shaded location.
- Use humus-rich soil improved with compost or leaf mould.
- Plant with the crown just below soil level.
- Water regularly while plants establish.
- Mulch annually to retain soil moisture.
The foliage may die back after flowering in warmer weather. New growth will return the following spring.
Why Grow Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Alba'
- Elegant white heart-shaped flowers
- Graceful arching stems
- Excellent plant for shade gardens
- Reliable perennial that forms larger clumps over time
- Soft foliage texture for woodland planting
If you want a classic shade perennial with delicate flowers, Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Alba' offers a calm and elegant display in spring gardens.