Pollination Info for Valentine Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis 'Hordival')

Valentine bleeding hearts are pollinated by bees and other insects. The drooping flowers of Dicentra spectabilis 'Hordival' are designed to attract pollinators, especially long-tongued bees.

The nectar of the Valentine bleeding heart is located at the base of the flower spur, which requires a long proboscis to reach. This makes it a particularly attractive flower for bumblebees, as they have longer tongues than honeybees or other types of bees.

Frequent visitors of the Valentine bleeding heart include the common eastern bumblebee (Bombus impatiens), the yellow-faced bumblebee (Bombus vosnesenskii), and the big black and yellow bumblebee (Bombus auricomus). These hardworking pollinators transfer pollen from one flower to another, which is necessary for the plant to produce seeds and grow successfully.

Valentine bleeding hearts may also self-pollinate, but cross-pollination through insect pollinators is still the preferred method and results in healthier offspring.

It is important to note that the use of pesticides can harm or kill pollinators, including bees, which can have a detrimental effect on the Valentine bleeding heart and other plants in the area. Encouraging insect pollinators by planting native flowers and avoiding the use of harmful pesticides can help ensure a healthy ecosystem for all.

Valentine Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis 'Hordival') FAQ

What is a Valentine Bleeding Heart?

The Valentine Bleeding Heart is a cultivar of the Dicentra spectabilis plant, also known as the common bleeding heart. It is named for its heart-shaped flowers that droop from arching stems, resembling bleeding hearts.

What are the characteristics of the Valentine Bleeding Heart?

The Valentine Bleeding Heart has deep red or pink heart-shaped flowers that bloom from early spring to early summer. The foliage is a bluish-green color, and the plant can grow up to 24 inches tall and wide.

What are the growing requirements for the Valentine Bleeding Heart?

The Valentine Bleeding Heart is a shade-loving plant that prefers moist, well-drained soil. It can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but in warmer climates, it should be planted in partial or full shade. It is hardy in zones 3-9 and does best in cool, moist climates.

How do I plant the Valentine Bleeding Heart?

Plant the Valentine Bleeding Heart in the spring or fall in a shaded or partially shaded location with well-draining soil. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball and plant the bleeding heart so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Water thoroughly and add a layer of organic mulch to help retain moisture.

How do I care for the Valentine Bleeding Heart?

Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Fertilize in the spring with an all-purpose granular fertilizer. Deadhead the flowers as they fade to promote new blooms. Cut back the foliage in the fall after it has died back. The Valentine Bleeding Heart is susceptible to slug and snail damage, so use a slug and snail bait if necessary.

Can the Valentine Bleeding Heart be grown in a container?

Yes, the Valentine Bleeding Heart can be grown in a container as long as the container is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil consistently moist. Fertilize as directed.

Is the Valentine Bleeding Heart poisonous?

The Valentine Bleeding Heart is considered toxic if ingested in large quantities. All parts of the plant contain toxic compounds, including the leaves, stems, and roots. Keep the plant away from children and pets.

Planting and Care for Valentine Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis 'Hordival')

The Valentine Bleeding Heart is a beautiful, shade-loving perennial that produces heart-shaped pink flowers with grace and elegance. Follow these planting and care instructions to ensure your plant thrives:

Planting:

• Choose a spot in your garden that gets partial to full shade, with well-draining soil.
• Plant Valentine Bleeding Heart in the spring or fall, at a depth of 2-3 inches and spacing them 18-24 inches apart.
• Water thoroughly after planting to help the roots establish.

Care:

• Water your Valentine Bleeding Heart regularly, especially during hot, dry periods. Provide enough water to keep the soil moist, but not soaking wet.
• Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer in the early spring, when new growth appears.
• Mulch around your plant to help retain moisture in the soil and protect it from winter temperatures.
• Remove spent flowers throughout the growing season to encourage new blooms.
• Cut back your Valentine Bleeding Heart plant to the ground after it has finished flowering in the late spring or early summer.

With these simple steps, your Valentine Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis 'Hordival') plant will thrive in your garden year after year, producing stunning pink blossoms that are sure to capture your heart.