Herbal Correspondence
Physical Characteristics
Bleeding Heart is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial that grows to 120 cm (47 in) tall by 45 cm (18 in) wide. This plant exhibits 3-lobed compound leaves on fleshy green to pink stems, and during spring and early summer, it bears arching horizontal racemes of up to 20 pendent flowers. The outer petals are bright fuchsia-pink, whereas the inner ones are white. These flowers strikingly resemble the conventional heart shape with a droplet beneath—hence the common name.
The plant sometimes behaves like a spring ephemeral, going dormant in summer. When disturbed, its roots are quite brittle.
Growing Habits
In cool and moist climates, it flourishes in the full sun. However, under warmer, drier conditions, the plant requires some shade. Pests such as aphids, slugs, and snails sometimes feed on its leaves. The clumps remain compact and don’t require dividing.
Seeds, which bear whitish elaiosomes in long pods, must be sown while fresh. The division should be performed late in the fall or early in spring.
Medicinal Uses
The roots of the Bleeding Heart plant, especially when in flower, are used for their medicinal properties. These roots were known as “toothache medicine” among the native tribes of the Pacific Northwest due to their numbing effect on the gums, cheeks, and tongue. While not a substitute for dental care, they provide temporary relief.
Bleeding Heart has been found to help with pain relief and moments of debilitating depression. It can be uplifting for chronic illness conditions and is known to ease the wounds of a broken heart. The fresh rhizome also has a euphoric effect on the mind and relaxes nervous tension.
Note: This plant is not recommended for use during pregnancy or in cases of severe neurological disorders.
Magical & Metaphysical Aspects
*Revered by Venus and Love Daimons such as Himeros and Eros, the Bleeding Heart plant holds powerful love and healing magic. The plant is often used in love jars to attract love and heal emotional pain. It is most notably recognized for its use in healing the heart and easing emotional pain.
According to my herbal and gardening experience and praxis, not in folklore.
Folklore & Symbolism
The Bleeding Heart plant is steeped in tragedy and unrequited love. One legend tells of a penniless man who showered a selfish princess with gifts trying to win her love. Rejected and heartbroken, he took his life, leading to the emergence of the first Bleeding Heart plant.
Today, the plant signifies not just physical pain but also the emotional toil of lost love, making it a symbol for Aphrodite and her son Erote Himeros.
Additional Info
For garden enthusiasts, variants such as Lamprocapnos spectabilis, ‘Alba’, ‘Valentine’ and ‘Gold Heart’ have gained the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
>Remember: even if people refer to this plant as a love charm or healing remedy, always consult with a healthcare professional before using any plant medicinally.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional advice.
