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Dicentra canadensis, commonly known as Squirrel Corn, is a captivating woodland wildflower cherished for its dainty, heart-shaped blooms and delicate, fern-like foliage. This perennial herb, native to North America, thrives in shaded, forested areas, where it adds elegance to the garden with its soft white to pale pink flowers. Squirrel Corn is often found in the understory of deciduous forests, benefiting from the moist, humus-rich soil and excellent conditions. Its delicate appearance belies a resilient plant, ideally suited to woodland gardens and naturalized settings.
How tall does squirrel corn get?
Although small, Squirrel Corn makes a significant visual impact when allowed to flourish in its preferred environment. It grows to a height of 6 to 10 inches, making it an ideal ground cover for shaded garden beds. Its low, spreading habit allows it to form dense patches, creating a lush carpet of foliage beneath taller trees or shrubs. The finely divided leaves resemble ferns, lending the plant an airy, ethereal quality. This compact height makes Squirrel Corn an excellent companion for other shade-loving perennials, such as ferns, hostas, and trilliums. Its small size lets it be incorporated into smaller garden spaces or crevices along shaded pathways.
Is squirrel corn related to a bleeding heart?
Squirrel Corn is closely related to the more widely known Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis), as both belong to the Dicentra genus. While Bleeding Heart is famous for its larger, drooping flowers and taller growth habit, Squirrel Corn shares the same distinctively shaped blooms but in a more understated form. The heart-shaped flowers of Squirrel Corn are smaller and less conspicuous, measuring about half an inch across, with a creamy white or pale pink hue. These flowers dangle gracefully from slender, arching stems, much like Bleeding Heart's, but in a more delicate arrangement. Despite their smaller size, the flowers of Squirrel Corn are no less enchanting, particularly when viewed up close in a quiet woodland setting. The familial connection between these two plants is evident in their similar foliage and flower structures, but Squirrel Corn maintains a more subtle woodland charm than its showier cousin.
Will squirrel corn grow?
Squirrel Corn is a plant that rewards patience and thoughtful placement in the garden. While it may not be as commonly cultivated as other perennials, growing in the right conditions is relatively easy. The key to success with Squirrel Corn lies in recreating its natural habitat. It thrives in shaded areas with consistently moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It prefers cooler climates and can struggle in areas with hot, dry summers, so planting it in a location that mimics the dappled shade of a woodland understory is essential. Given the right environment, Squirrel Corn will spread slowly but steadily, forming small colonies over time. This spreading habit makes it an excellent choice for naturalizing in woodland gardens or filling gaps beneath larger shrubs or trees. The foliage will die back after the plant finishes blooming in late spring, entering a period of dormancy until the following year. This cyclical growth pattern allows Squirrel Corn to conserve energy and return each spring with renewed vigor.
What are the medicinal uses of Dicentra canadensis?
Though primarily appreciated for its ornamental value, Dicentra canadensis has a history of use in traditional medicine, particularly among Indigenous peoples of North America. The plant's underground tubers, which resemble kernels of corn (hence the common name Squirrel Corn), were traditionally used for various medicinal purposes. These tubers were thought to possess soothing properties and were sometimes used to treat insomnia and nervous disorders. Additionally, preparations made from the plant were occasionally employed as a remedy for skin conditions and a treatment for specific digestive issues.
However, it's important to note that Dicentra canadensis contains alkaloids, which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. Use caution and seek guidance from a knowledgeable practitioner when considering the plant's medicinal use. While modern herbalists may not commonly use Squirrel Corn in contemporary remedies, its historical significance as a medicinal plant adds another interest to its already intriguing presence in the garden.
The plant's charm, subtle beauty, and rich cultural history make it a fascinating addition to any woodland garden. Its delicate heart-shaped flowers, reminiscent of its more famous cousin, the Bleeding Heart, add an element of surprise when discovered growing in the dappled light of a forested area. Squirrel Corn may be small in stature, but it offers a quiet elegance and a solid connection to the natural landscapes of North America. Whether you're interested in its ornamental appeal or medicinal lore, Dicentra canadensis is a plant that invites admiration and respect.
