Quick answer: Dutchman's breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) is native to 32 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: Fritzflohrreynolds, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Moist |
| Soil | Humus-rich, acid to neutral soils, tolerates limestone |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-May |
| Height | Up to 1 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Special value to bumble bees |
All parts toxic only in large quantities. Minor skin irritation when touched. Symptoms if ingested: trembling, staggering, vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, labored breathing. Toxic principle: isoquinolone alkaloids
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Dutchman's breeches
Where is Dutchman's breeches native?
Dutchman's breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) is native to 32 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Dutchman's breeches bloom?
Dutchman's breeches blooms Apr-May. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Dutchman's breeches need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Water: Moist. Soil: Humus-rich, acid to neutral soils, tolerates limestone. Mature height: Up to 1 ft tall.
Is Dutchman's breeches good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Special value to bumble bees.
Is Dutchman's breeches deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Dutchman's breeches is deer-resistant and tolerates shade.
Is Dutchman's breeches toxic?
All parts toxic only in large quantities. Minor skin irritation when touched. Symptoms if ingested: trembling, staggering, vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, labored breathing. Toxic principle: isoquinolone alkaloids.
Where can I buy real Dutchman's breeches seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 15 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Dicentra cucullaria on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Dutchman's breeches.
- Canadian wild ginger Asarum canadense
- Eastern red columbine Aquilegia canadensis
- Great blue lobelia Lobelia siphilitica
- Heart-leaved meadow parsnip Zizia aptera
- Sweet Joe-Pye Eutrochium purpureum
- Virginia mountain mint Pycnanthemum virginianum
Also listed under
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