An inhabitant of the eastern hardwood forest, Dicentra canadensis seems to prefer rich soils with rocky outcrops.

It grows best in loam-rich moist soils. This small wildflower has lovely heart-shaped blooms in spring with lacy foliage. By summer it goes dormant. Use in the woodland and shade gardens for early spring interest. Plant with later appearing perennials.

Germination of seeds can be slow and difficult as they are spread by ants. It is possible to propagate from root division by transplanting the tiny root tubers. All parts of this plant are toxic if ingested in large quantities.