The Dutchmans breeches are known by
its scientific name Dicentra cucullaria and you’re likely to find the plant
blooming in late spring and growing with other wildflowers in shaded woodland
areas. Actually the frilly foliage and the unusual blooms appear delicate and
attractive. This may lead you to wonder if you can grow a dutchman's breeches
flower in your cultivated landscape. You might be able to grow dutchman's
breeches flower if you can provide the right dutchman's breeches flower growing
conditions.
Dutchman's Breeches
Flower Growing Conditions
The care of dutchman's breeches
flower is fairly minimal when they’re located in the right spot. The dutchman's
breeches flower actually grows best in conditions similar to their native
woodland habitat. Dappled shade and organic, humus soil, such as the one found
on the forest floor, facilitate the best growth of the plant. Acidic, moist
soil is required for the brief bloom of the dutchman's breeches flower. Soil should
dry out during dormancy for ideal dutchman's breeches flower growing.
Why Are They Called Dutchman's
Breeches?
Dutchmen breeches is actually a wildflower of
the Dicentra clan, like the Dicentra bleeding heart. Actually, dutchman's
breeches flower is sometimes called wild bleeding heart. The blooms (which are called
spurs) are similar to those of the bleeding heart plant, although shaped
differently, more like a pair of pantaloons than a heart – thus, the common
name of dutchman's breeches flower. The scientific name is Dicentra cucullaria.
In the wild the dutchman's breeches flower is often found growing with squirrel
corn (D. canadensis), earning the playful pair the name of Boys and Girls. You
may also hear dutchman's breeches flower called Staggerweed. This actually refers
to cattle that have overindulged in the wild plant in their pastures, causing
convulsions and a staggering gait. The dutchman's breeches flower also create a
poppy-like hallucinogen and should not be consumed by humans. It is probably
best to always wear gloves when taking care of the dutchman's breeches flower.
Where do Dutchman's breeches grow?
If your landscape actually has the
appropriate dutchman's breeches flower growing conditions as described above, then
you can grow the plant. The edge of nearby woodlands is a great place to plant the
dutchman's breeches flower. Keep in mind that the dutchman's breeches flower
grows from an underground tuber and may spread rapidly when planted in the
right location. Make sure you allow plenty of room for its spread or be
prepared to dig and replant tubers during the dormant season. The dutchman's
breeches seeds are often spread by ants, so just expect to see them in
unexpected locations in the nearby landscape. The rich soil created by ant’s
waste in their nesting places is ideal for dutchman's breeches flower growing
conditions as well.
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