Dicentra canadensis

Common Names

Squirrel Corn

Summary

Squirrel corn is a native North American, clump-forming, tuberous perennial that grows about 15–30 cm tall with finely divided grey-green leaves. In spring, arching stems bear fragrant white heart-shaped flowers that hang above the foliage, sometimes with pale pink tints and two spurs, and the plant goes dormant in summer. It prefers partial to full shade and moist, humus-rich soil of neutral to slightly acidic pH, tolerating loam and clay; hardy in USDA zones 3–7. Propagation is by seed when ripe or by division in spring or after leaves die back, with seeds dispersed by ants; in gardens it suits woodland or shade borders, cottage plantings, and underplanting of roses and shrubs. The plant is generally pest- and disease-free, though slugs and snails can affect emerging foliage, and all parts are poisonous if ingested in large quantities.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

4-19.5 inches

Spread

8-12 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3-7

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade; tolerates full shade.

Soil Type

Humus-rich, loamy soil that is consistently moist and well-drained, with acidic to neutral pH.

Soil Drainage

Moist but well-drained soil, well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged, rich in organic matter.

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Bloom Color

White

Bloom Time

Spring

Foliage Color

Blue-green foliage

Fall Foliage Color

Blue-gray

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Medium

Seasons of Interest

Spring

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees and butterflies