Western bleeding heart or Pacific bleeding heart (Dicentra formosa) is a perennial in the Poppy family, commonly found in moist wooded areas from California to British Columbia. The plant features clusters of drooping, heart-shaped pink and white blooms on leafless stems, emerging from delicate, fern-like leaves.
This plant self-seeds readily and spreads quickly through its underground root system. After flowering in spring, it often goes dormant for the summer, then re-emerges and flowers again in autumn. It prefers shade in warmer areas and more sun in cooler regions of its range.
Western bleeding heart is well-suited for shady, moist garden environments, often used as a groundcover or in woodland settings. It provides visual interest with its distinctive heart-shaped blooms and delicate foliage, offering an attractive addition to a variety of garden designs. It also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.