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Dutchman's Breeches


Thrives in Zones 3 - 7


Dutchman's Breeches feature delicate, pantaloon-shaped white blooms that dangle gracefully from arching stems, adding charm and elegance to shaded woodland gardens.

Unique, whimsical springtime blooms

Low maintenance and deer-resistant

Great for shaded garden areas

Package of: Buy 1 Get 1 Free
7-10 Days

Dutchman’s Breeches - Dicentra cucullaria

The Dutchman’s Breeches is a charming herbaceous perennial native to eastern North America. The leaves of this luscious plant are featherlike in appearance, reminiscent of a fern, and form compact clusters in the shape of a tiny 6 to 12 in tall bush. This plant blooms around mid to late spring before the leaves of the deciduous overstory have fully fill in. They form a delicately arching raceme where the pant-like flowers hang upside down in a dense line.

While this plant prefers moist, humus-rich, fertile soils, it can tolerate different types of soil pHs. This plant will not do well in dry soil, so make sure to plant them in consistently moist, but well-drained, and partially shaded area of your garden for best growth and flower production.

Plant Details - Dutchman's Breeches

Family: Fumariaceae

Hardiness Zones: 3 to 8

Light Requirement: Partial to full shade

Water Needs: moderate to moist

Height: 6 to 12 in

Spread: 6 to 8 in

Growth Rate: Moderate

Bloom Time: April–May

Flower Color: White with yellow tips

Wildlife Value: Attractive to pollinators

As the Dutchman’s Breeches is an early bloomer, it provides a reliable nectar source for early emergent bees. In fact, bumblebees are the most effective pollinator for this plant as they can sufficiently open the inner and outer parts of the flower for pollination and these adorable flowers have adapted to be dependent on bumblebees for their reproduction.

Once the seeds have ripened in late spring, the plant dies back and the root system stays dormant throughout the summer months. While these plants are relatively ephemeral, their short-lived presence in the garden (or natural environment) is a heart-warming reminder that spring is here and warm weather is on the way!

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Dutchman's Breeches

While it is full-shade tolerant, the lack of light will impact flower production. Preferably plant this herbaceous perennial in partial shade with dappled light. They are an attractive addition to a woodland garden and make a charming ornament to the base of established trees for an extra pop of fluffy green foliage to the barked trunk.

This plant will spread and can cover a fair amount of area over a couple of years. As such, it makes a great ground cover, under planting for shrubs, and woodland gardens. It can be propagated through plant division. Be wary as slugs will take advantage of the tender leaves of this plant; however, once established, it is rabbit resistant and predominately disease free.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Attractive to bumblebees, adorable pant-shaped flowers, low maintenance.

Plant these charmingly delicate flowers in the shady area of a pollinator garden to bring a bustle of bees and butterflies to your yard. Shop for Dutchman’s Breeches online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bare Root Plants
Bloom season icon

Bloom Season

Spring

Bloom/Foliage Color icon

Bloom/Foliage Color

White

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Height at Maturity

Over 12"

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Care

Dutchman's Breeches thrive in well-drained, organic soil. Keep the soil always damp but not soggy. They benefit from occasional fertilization in early spring. Remove spent flowers to encourage neat growth. Allow foliage to die back naturally for best results.

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Plant Reproduction

Dutchman's Breeches spread by dispersing their seeds, which ants often carry.

Shipping date depends on the date displayed and chosen when you order from the product's page.

We do not accept returned plants. If you purchased an extended warranty we do accept claims, please navigate to the warranty page for instructions HERE

Dutchmans Breeches - TN Nursery
Dutchman's BreechesBuy 1 Get 1 Free Sale price $5.99

Proper Sunlight
Happy Plants

Dutchman's Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) thrive in dappled or partial shade. This woodland perennial prefers the filtered light of a forest understory, which mimics its natural habitat, providing excellent, indirect sunlight that supports its delicate foliage and unique blooms.

Start your dream garden today

Our mission is to provide high-quality, sustainably grown plants that empower every gardener to make a lasting impact—one root at a time.

HASSLE FREE What are the benefits of Dutchman's Breeches?
Bloom resembles little pants
Rare and unique find in a garden
Sweet aroma & pollinator love them
BARE ROOT PLANTS ARE BETTER Growing is easier with Bare Root Plants TN Nursery offers a breathtaking variety of regionally adapted plants that thrive with minimal effort. Expert guidance enables choosing the right species for your soil and climate
Easier to Grow Bareroot dormant plants are more hardy because they adapt better to new environments,
Cost Effective With no heavy pots or soil, you'll save 50-60% on shipping costs, and can easily plant yourself
Better Growth Bare root plants are shipped without soil or pots, making them lightweight and easy to handle.
Eco-Friendly Bare root native plants are a sustainable choice that support biodiversity, use less water, and thrive with minimal maintenance.
Features
Why You Will Love Our Dutchman's Breeches

Natural Woodland Appeal

With their delicate, arching stems and unique flower shape, Dutchman's Breeches evoke a natural, woodland charm. They blend seamlessly with other shade-loving plants and enhance the overall beauty of a naturalized garden setting.

Charming Floral Design

Dutchman's Breeches showcase creamy white or pinkish flowers resembling old-fashioned Dutch pantaloons hanging upside-down. Their outer petals form a distinctive 'V' shape with yellow-tipped bases, adding a whimsical touch to any garden.

Ideal for Shaded Areas

Perfect for wildflower and woodland gardens, Dutchman's Breeches thrive in shaded spots under mature trees, making them an excellent choice for adding beauty to low-light areas


Low-Maintenance Growth

Grown from corms, which multiply underground, Dutchman's Breeches are easy to propagate by dividing mature corms. They require minimal maintenance once established, making them a hassle-free addition.

They’re blooming beautifully and adding a touch of elegance to my shaded garden areas. Excellent quality!
– Tyler Noah, Verified Buyer
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Customer Reviews

Based on 18 reviews
78%
(14)
17%
(3)
6%
(1)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
D
Donna Ingram
Replacement plants

First order, 2 plants **** live. Replacements look good, better than first order. Only problem for me is that I had to pay shipping twice even though first order failure was not my fault.

K
Kathy Duke
Happily transplanted!

Terrific healthy plants, timely delivery, more than expected and growing well.

C
C.
Great Customer Service!

Poor reviews are not posted. I did not receive my Dutchman's Breeches in my order and received silence when I reached out to fix the issue.

D
Deborah Rudis
Excellent tubers!

I am thrilled at how great these tubers were after shipping to Alaska. Thanks for taking such good care In packaging and shipping.

J
John Halbert

nothing has emerged out of the pots I planted them in...all of the plants I ordered?? order # 100242596 Did they freeze when they were shipped to me?

Frequently asked questions

Still have a question? Contact us here.

Do you ship overseas?

Yes, we ship all over the world. Shipping costs will apply, and will be added at checkout. We run discounts and promotions all year, so stay tuned for exclusive deals.

How long will it take to get my orders?

It depends on where you are. Orders processed here will take 5-7 business days to arrive. Overseas deliveries can take anywhere from 7-16 days. Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.

Any question?

You can contact us through our contact page! We will be happy to assist you.