Lamprocapnos spectabilis (the species formally known as Dicentra
spectabilis) is an easy, tough, arctic-hardy, spring-blooming perennial
that always makes me happy. I’ve posted previously about the wonders of
‘Gold Heart’ – all the screaming yellow foliage you can stand, topped
with magenta flowers.
Last fall, I’d finally gotten my mitts on a hard-to-find one named ‘Valentine’. Already dormant in the pot, I planted it with hopes that it would somewhat resemble the tag photo (and hype) as I’d not seen it in person. What a treat when it finally unfurled last week…woo hoo!
Pride of Place Plants is the introduction and marketing firm (“plant sports agents” as I call companies like this. Pun intended). According to Pride of Place, ‘Valentine’ (USPP22739,COPF etc.) arose as a chance seedling in the garden of Phyllis and Lyle Sarrazin, Prince George British Columbia, Canada.
This is a true “color break” for the species. The heart-shaped flowers glow fluorescent red, and the dark red stems really pop against the rest of springtime’s green. Keep it away from pink stuff, though. Yeek.
Possibly available at a fine independent garden center near you; or through mail-order – I know Plant Delights Nursery carries it.
Dang. Another one of those annoying taxonomic changes that makes me un- and then re-learn.
This plant is extremely common in Swedish gardens where I live. However, it does very well in Southern California if grown in shade under woodland garden tree canopies.