Heuchera richardsonii aka Richardson's Alumroot

Heuchera richardsonii is a perennial in the saxifrage family. Gardeners call it prairie alumroot or Richardson’s alumroot. Its native range stretches from subarctic America into the northern United States. It grows in north-central states and south-central Canada. Wild plants grow on prairies and in open woods. They also grow on glades, slopes, bluffs, and uplands. Many of these sites have sandy or rocky soil.

The plant forms a mound of leaves at ground level. This mound stands about 1–1.5 feet [0.30–0.46 m] tall. Plants spread about 1.5 feet [0.46 m] wide. The green leaves have long stalks and a heart-shaped outline. Each leaf has shallow lobes and spans 2–3 inches. Young leaves may show white marks or a purple tint. As they age, the leaves become more evenly green. The plant also has a hairy look. Its shallow roots form clumps that soon develop woody bases.

Thin, wiry flower stems rise well above the leaf mound. Small, bell-shaped flowers form loose panicles at their tips. Missouri Botanical Garden gives a flowering height of 1.5–2 feet [0.46–0.61 m]. Chicago Botanic Garden reports taller stems, reaching 3–4 feet [0.91–1.22 m]. Flowers are mainly green, though white, red, or brown tones occur. Missouri records bloom from June to July. Chicago’s account gives May to July, with its listing extending into August. Butterflies and other pollinators visit the flowers. Chicago also lists bird interest and resistance to deer.

Grow prairie alumroot in sun or part shade. Full sun suits gardens in the north of its range. Afternoon shade helps in places with hot, humid summers. It grows in dry to moderately moist soil. Good drainage matters more than a rich soil. Suitable soils include shallow, stony ground and humus-rich loam. The plant tolerates drought and suits USDA zones 3–9. Winter mulch after the ground freezes helps limit root heaving. Divide the clumps in spring every three to four years.

Prairie alumroot needs little upkeep and has no major reported pest or disease problems. Its leaves and loose flower sprays add contrast to borders. It also suits rock gardens, native plantings, and open woodland gardens. Use it along edges or in groups for ground cover. Its drought tolerance makes it useful in dry garden sites.