Origin
Heuchera americana, also commonly known as Alumroot, is a native perennial herbaceous plant in North America. It is found from eastern Canada to as far south as northern Georgia and Alabama. The variety var. hispida (Pursh) E. Wells is known to grow in rocky and moist areas from Ontario to Tennessee, and towards the east coast.
Common Names
Heuchera americana L. var. hispida (Pursh) E. Wells is commonly known by several names such as Hairy Alumroot, Bristly Alumroot, and Hispid Alumroot.
Uses
Traditionally, Heuchera species have been used in Native American medicine to help with various ailments such as mouth sores, stomach troubles, and even as a natural insect repellent. The leaves are also consumed as food in some Native American cultures.
In addition to its medicinal properties, Heuchera americana L. var. hispida (Pursh) E. Wells is popular amongst horticulturists as an ornamental plant. It is well suited for rock gardens, borders, and containers due to its colorful foliage, variance of colors, and beautiful flowers.
General Appearance
Heuchera americana L. var. hispida (Pursh) E. Wells is a clump-forming, herbaceous perennial that grows up to 50 cm in height. The leaves are rounded, basal, and lobed, with a rough texture and bristly hairs along the margins. The foliage varies in color from dark green to reddish-purple. During the spring and summer months, Heuchera americana L. var. hispida (Pursh) E. Wells produces showy, dense panicles of small, bell-shaped flowers which are pink to red or even white in color. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant typically blooms in May and June and goes dormant in the winter.
Light Requirements
Heuchera americana L. var. hispida (Pursh) E. Wells, or Hairy Alumroot, requires moderate to partial shade for optimal growth. Direct sunlight can damage the delicate leaves, and full shade can impede flowering. Dappled sunlight or filtered shade are ideal for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
Hairy Alumroot thrives in temperate climates with cool to moderate temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 10°C to 24°C. It can tolerate hot, humid summers, as well as mild winters, down to -10°C. Extreme heatwaves or frost can damage the foliage and reduce the plant's vigor.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Hairy Alumroot should be well-aerated and moist, but not waterlogged. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and loamy soils. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 to 7.5. The addition of organic matter, such as compost or leaf mold, can improve the soil's fertility and moisture-holding capacity, which can benefit the plant's growth.
Cultivation Methods
Heuchera americana L. var. hispida (Pursh) E. Wells is a hardy perennial plant that can grow in full sun or partial shade. It can thrive in a variety of soil types but prefers well-draining, moist soil. Before planting, loosen the soil and amend it with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and nutrition. The plant can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Watering Needs
The plant requires consistent moisture to thrive but does not tolerate wet soil conditions. Water the Heuchera americana L. var. hispida (Pursh) E. Wells deeply once or twice a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the colder months. Avoid wetting the foliage to prevent disease and fungal growth.
Fertilization
Heuchera americana L. var. hispida (Pursh) E. Wells benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and again in midsummer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for dosage and application. Avoid over-fertilization, which can result in weak growth and decreased disease resistance.
Pruning
To maintain the health and appearance of Heuchera americana L. var. hispida (Pursh) E. Wells, prune the plant regularly. Remove any dead or damaged foliage in the spring or fall. Cut back the entire plant by one-third in the early spring to encourage new growth and increase branching. Deadhead spent blooms throughout the growing season to prolong the blooming period and prevent self-sowing.
Propagation of Heuchera americana L. var. hispida (Pursh) E. Wells
Heuchera americana L. var. hispida (Pursh) E. Wells, commonly known as hairy alumroot, is a tough and adaptable native plant that can be propagated by various methods.
Division
The most common method of propagation for Heuchera americana var. hispida is division. The mature plant can be carefully dug up in early spring or fall, and divided into smaller pieces. Each section of the plant should have roots and shoots attached. The divisions can then be replanted in a suitable location.
Seed
Heuchera americana var. hispida can also be propagated by seed. The seeds can be collected in late summer when they are fully mature. They can be sown immediately or stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. The seeds should be scarified before sowing to ensure germination. Scarification can be achieved by rubbing the seeds between two sheets of sandpaper or by soaking them in hot water overnight. The seeds should then be sown in a seed tray or small pots containing a sterile potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the tray or pots in a warm, bright location.
Stem cuttings
Heuchera americana var. hispida can be propagated by stem cuttings. Take cuttings in early summer when the new growth is still soft and green. Cut a stem that is about 4-6 inches long and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the stem in rooting hormone and insert it into a pot containing a sterile potting mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment, and place it in a bright, but indirect light. Rooting can take several weeks to a few months.
Disease and Pest Management for Heuchera Americana L. var. Hispida (Pursh) E. Wells
Heuchera Americana L. var. Hispida (Pursh) E. Wells, commonly known as Alum Root, is a native plant of North America that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. The plant has been widely used for medicinal purposes and landscaping. However, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can have devastating effects on its growth and overall health. Below, we will discuss some common diseases and pests that can affect Alum Root and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Crown Rot: Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects many plants, including Alum Root. It is caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani and can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. The best way to manage crown rot is to prevent it from occurring. Avoid planting Alum Root in poorly drained soil and make sure not to overwater.
Fungal Leaf Spot: Fungal leaf spot is caused by several different fungi and can cause small, circular lesions on the leaves of Alum Root. Fungal leaf spot can be managed by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant through pruning and proper spacing.
Verticillium Wilt: Verticillium wilt is a fungal disease caused by the fungi Verticillium albo-atrum and Verticillium dahliae. It can lead to yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and wilting. The best way to manage Verticillium wilt is to prevent it from occurring by planting Alum Root in well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and webbing on the Alum Root. You can manage spider mites by washing the plant with a strong jet of water or applying insecticidal soap.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can cause irregular holes in Alum Root leaves. You can manage them by handpicking them or using a slug and snail bait.
Leaf Miners: Leaf miners are small insects that can cause leaves to turn brown and curl. They can be managed by removing infected leaves and applying insecticidal soap.
By following these disease and pest management strategies, you can keep your Alum Root plant healthy and thriving.
