Origin
Heuchera americana L. var. hirsuticaulis (Wheelock) Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela is a perennial plant that belongs to the Saxifrage family (Saxifragaceae). This plant is native to North America, specifically found within the eastern regions of the United States.Common Names
This species of Heuchera is commonly known as the "hairy-stemmed alumroot" or "hairy-stem alumroot." This is due to the plant's distinct hairy stems.Appearance
Hairy-stemmed alumroot has a rosette of evergreen basal leaves that grow from a central crown. The leaves are typically rounded or heart-shaped, measuring three to six inches in diameter. The leaves are green, but some cultivars have purple or bronze tones. The leaves may have wavy edges, and each leaf has several shallow lobes, giving them a somewhat scalloped appearance. The plant's stem is covered with fine hairs, which is where the plant gets its common name. The hairy stems form a cluster of wiry stems, which then produce a spike of small, pinkish-white or greenish-white flowers in the late spring or early summer.Uses
The leaves of the Hairy-stemmed alumroot contain astringent qualities and were traditionally used for medicinal purposes, such as treating a variety of ailments, including inflammation, diarrhea, and wounds. In recent years, it has become a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers. It is cultivated for use in garden beds, rock gardens, and borders. Additionally, the plant's leaves can be used for decorative purposes, such as in floral arrangements. Overall, Heuchera americana L. var. hirsuticaulis is an attractive and useful plant that can add color and interest to any garden.Light Requirements
The Heuchera americana L. var. hirsuticaulis (Wheelock) Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela typically requires partial shade to full sun exposure. The plant can grow in areas that receive direct sunlight for up to six hours a day. It grows well in open fields, edges of woodlands, and rocky slopes that provide varying levels of sunlight throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
Heuchera Americana L. var. Hirsuticaulis is a hardy plant that can withstand extreme temperatures. It can grow in USDA zones 3-9, which have an average minimum temperature of -40°F to 30°F (-40°C to -1°C) and an average maximum temperature of 70°F to 100°F (21°C to 38°C).
Soil Requirements
The Heuchera Americana L. var. Hirsuticaulis prefers well-drained moist soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in soil that has a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. The addition of compost or manure to the soil can help improve nutrients and water content. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils but prefers those that are well-drained.
Cultivation Methods
The Heuchera americana L. var. hirsuticaulis (Wheelock) Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela, also known as the hairystem alumroot, is a perennial plant native to North America that thrives in moist, shady environments. To cultivate this plant, it is best to plant it in a location that receives partial to full shade.
Make sure the soil is well-draining but remains moist. The soil should have a pH of 5.5-7.5, and the plant needs to be watered regularly during the growing season in hot, dry climates.
If you plan on growing Heuchera from seed, sow it indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them outside in a location with partial shade.
Watering Needs
The Heuchera americana L. var. hirsuticaulis plant prefers moist soil and requires regular watering during the growing season. It is essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be done at the base of the plant and directed toward the soil, taking care not to splash water onto the leaves.
During hot, dry weather, you may need to increase watering to twice a week, depending on the plant's location and soil type. In winter, reduce watering because the plant is dormant at that time.
Fertilization
Heuchera americana L. var. hirsuticaulis plants do not require frequent fertilization. However, adding compost or a balanced fertilizer in the spring helps promote healthy growth and flowering.
When selecting a fertilizer, choose one with a balanced formula that includes nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Use a water-soluble fertilizer and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions, taking care not to over-fertilize the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Heuchera americana L. var. hirsuticaulis plants is not necessary, but it can help keep them healthy and tidy. Deadheading spent flowers encourages the plant to produce more blooms, and removing yellow or brown leaves helps prevent disease and insect infestations.
If the plant becomes too large and crowded, you can divide it in the spring or fall. Lift the plant from the soil and use a sharp knife or garden fork to separate the clumps. Replant the divisions in a new location or in fresh soil.
Propagation Methods for Heuchera americana L. var. hirsuticaulis
There are several methods of propagating Heuchera americana L. var. hirsuticaulis, including division, seed propagation, and stem cuttings.
Division
Division is the most common method of propagating Heuchera. The plant can be divided in the spring or fall when the weather is cool and wet. To divide the plant, carefully lift it from the ground and separate the roots into several sections using a clean, sharp knife. Each section should have at least one healthy root and a cluster of leaves. Transplant the divided sections into new containers or directly into the ground.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is another method of propagating Heuchera, but it takes longer than division and requires some patience. Collect the seeds in the fall when they are dry and brown. Sow the seeds in a shallow container filled with moist potting soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Place the container in a cool, bright location, and keep the soil consistently moist. Germination can take several weeks to several months, and once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into new containers or directly into the ground.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the least common method of propagating Heuchera, but it can be the quickest way to get new plants. Take stem cuttings in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a stem that is about 3 to 4 inches long, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Insert the stem cutting into a container filled with moist potting soil and cover it with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the container in a bright, warm area, but out of direct sunlight. After several weeks, the cutting should have rooted and can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the ground.
Disease Management
Heuchera americana L. var. hirsuticaulis, commonly known as Alumroot, can be affected by some diseases that can hinder its growth and even lead to death. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Crown Rot
Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the base of the plant and causes it to rot. To manage this disease, it is necessary to remove the infected parts of the plant carefully. If the disease is severe, it is better to remove the whole plant. The soil around the plant should be replaced with sterilized soil before replanting. Good drainage of the soil and avoiding waterlogging can prevent the disease from occurring.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves and stems of the plant. Proper plant spacing and good air circulation around the plant can prevent this disease from occurring. If the disease is present, proper sanitation should be maintained by removing the infected parts of the plant, and fungicide treatment can also be administered.
Pest Management
Heuchera americana L. var. hirsuticaulis can be attacked by several pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause discoloration and stunted growth of the plant. Regularly spraying the plant with water can help prevent spider mite infestations. Mites can be removed from the plant by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails can consume significant portions of the plant and leave large holes in the leaves. To manage these pests, it is essential to maintain good sanitation practices and remove any dead plant material around the plant. Copper-based slug and snail baits can also be used to control these pests.
Root Weevils
Root weevils are pests that feed on the roots of the plant and can cause significant damage. To manage this pest, it is good to ensure proper irrigation of the plant as they tend to prefer moist soil. For effective management, a soil application of insecticide can be applied around the plant base.
