Squirrel Corn
dicentra canadensis
Also known as: ["Squirrel corn","Canadian bleeding heart"]
Overview
A delicate herbaceous perennial native to North America, known for its heart-shaped flowers and yellow tubers resembling corn kernels.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Dicentra |
| Botanical Name: | Dicentra canadensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shady garden bed or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to slightly moist but never waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy, well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in late fall.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 3–4 hours of morning sunlight or dappled light is ideal.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; avoid direct afternoon sun; place in shaded areas outdoors or north-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide filtered light; adjust placement seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust for dormancy periods.
Soil
moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions, especially during dormancy.
Protect from extreme heat; maintain cool conditions; adjust watering for temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes carefully.
- Plant segments 1–2 inches deep.
- Keep moist and shaded until established.
Best Time: Early spring before new growth emerges or late summer after flowering.
Environment
Shaded, humid environment with consistent moisture and moderate temperatures.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
Roots may develop within 4–6 weeks; new growth may take a full season.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, gloves, small trowel, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Divide rhizomes when the plant is dormant; ensure each segment has buds or growing points.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves or stems at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruners.
Checklist
Remove dead foliage; sanitize tools; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when necessary, typically every 2–3 years or if the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; handle rhizomes carefully.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating; allow excess to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or leaf mold for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature dormancy in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth may slow or stop; roots can be damaged in frozen soil.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease; plant may enter premature dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; stop in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Dicentra canadensis. The plant's alkaloids are not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe isoquinoline alkaloids in Dicentra canadensis can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. While not highly toxic, it is advisable to prevent pets from consuming the plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDicentra canadensis contains isoquinoline alkaloids, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's toxicity is generally low, but ingestion may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dicentra canadensis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Squirrel Corn require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial shade to full shade conditions.
Q: How does Dicentra canadensis get its name?
A: It is named for its yellow tubers that resemble corn kernels.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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