Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis)-Viruses

Latest revision: 
March 2024

Cause Both tobacco ringspot nepovirus and tobacco rattle virus (TRV) have been reported on this host. TRV was confirmed on the OSU campus but it is unknown how extensively it occurs in the PNW. TRV is a rod-shaped virus with a positive sense ssRNA. Both viruses can be transmitted by nematodes.

Symptoms TRV - White line patterns or ringspots are found on many but not all leaves. White areas may cover 5% to 60% of a leaf. Pattern is different from leaf to leaf. Yellowing (chlorosis) or necrotic tissue does not seem to be a symptom. Plants are likely to be less vigorous and may not be as long-lived.

Cultural control

  • Avoid the disease by purchasing virus-free planting stock.
  • Remove infected plants but test for nematodes before replanting.

Reference Gleason, M.L., Daughtrey, M.L., Chase, A.R., Moorman, G.W., and Mueller, D. S. 2009. Diseases of Herbaceous Perennials. APS Press, St. Paul, MN.