Heuchera americana aka Alumroot
Taxonomy
Heuchera americana, also known as American alumroot or Coral bells, is a small evergreen perennial native to eastern and central North America. It belongs to the Saxifrage family and forms a compact mound of lobed, heart-shaped leaves. The foliage starts off as dark purple in spring and transitions to a dark blue-green color with purple veining and a silvery sheen in summer. From late spring to early summer, wiry, upright stems emerge, bearing spires of tiny cream-colored, bell-shaped flowers. This plant is often used in modern hybrids due to its contribution of hardiness, vigor, and vibrant color. It thrives best in moist, rich woods, preferring shade to part sun, and can be found naturally growing in rocky soils.
Common names
Alumroot, Rock Geranium, American AlumrootHow to care for Alumroot
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Alumroot, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Alumroot should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Alumroot loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Alumroot prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
Fertilizer
The Alumroot should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
The Alumroot is characterized by clumping growth, with new shoots emerging from the soil around the primary plant.
Region of origin
Alumroot’s native range is Eastern N. America - Southern Ontario to Connecticut and Michigan, south to Oklahoma and Georgia.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Heuchera Genus
Heuchera Alumroot
Heuchera cylindrica Mat Alumroot
Heuchera sanguinea Coral Bells
Heuchera glabra Alpine Alumroot
Heuchera parvifolia Hard Alumroot
Heuchera richardsonii Richardson's Alumroot
Heuchera villosa Hairy Alumroot
Heuchera rubescens Jack O'the Rocks
