Bleeding heart

Lamprocapnos spectabilis (L.) Fukuhara

Pet & Human Safety

People: Toxic to people (low severity)Pets: Toxic to pets

Hazardous parts

Flowers, Fruits, Leaves, Roots, Sap/Juice, Seeds, Stems

Preparation

Not applicable; this is an ornamental plant.

Hazard type

isoquinoline alkaloids

Hazard route

NC State says all parts are poisonous if ingested (trembling, staggering, vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, labored breathing) and that foliage may cause dermatitis after repeated contact, so gloves are suggested.

How complete this information is

The safety information on this page is partial. Where a source covers a point, it is shown; where none does, the page says so.

Toxic to pets

The pet verdict rests on the sources named in the source line.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

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Care

Hardiness zones: USDA zones 3 to 9 (NC State Extension).
Light: Best in morning sun with afternoon shade; tolerates heavy and partial shade, and full sun only in a cool, moist climate (NC State Extension).
Water needs: moderate
Mature size: 2 to 3 feet tall and 1 to 3 feet wide (NC State Extension).

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

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