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

Bloom Season

Spring

Bloom/Foliage Color

White

Height at Maturity

Under 12"

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.

Plant Reproduction

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

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs

Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.

For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.

Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.

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