Origin
Heuchera crinita Rydb., also known as the hairy alumroot, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family and is native to North America. It is commonly found in the eastern regions of the United States and Canada, including the Great Lakes region, the Appalachian Mountains, and the Ozarks.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as hairy alumroot due to the fine hairs that grow on its leaves. It is also referred to as crinolated coralbells, fringed Alumroot, and white-flowered alumroot.
Uses
The hairy alumroot has various uses, including medicinal, ornamental, and ecological purposes. The plant's roots have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as stomach disorders, fever, and wounds. The plant's leaves are also edible and can be used to season food, e.g., salads. Ornamentally, the plant is grown in gardens and landscapes for its attractive foliage and flowers. The plant is a preferred choice for hummingbirds and butterflies. Ecologically, hairy alumroot is useful in the restoration of disturbed soils and prevention of soil erosion.
General Appearance
The hairy alumroot grows up to 3 feet tall with upright, hairy stems emerging from a basal rosette. The plant's leaves are basal and palmate with 3-7 lobes and edged with tiny teeth. The green leaves are fragrant and turn deep red in the fall. The plant's flowers grow on long stems that emerge from the leafy stems, and they are white with green-tinted bracts. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant's fruit is a dry capsule containing small, light-brown seeds.
Light Requirements
Heuchera crinita Rydb. prefers partial to full shade conditions for optimal growth. It can grow in some sunlight, but direct exposure to intense sunlight can cause leaf scorching and limit growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Heuchera crinita Rydb. growth is between 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F). However, the plant can also tolerate temperatures as low as -25°C (-13°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F) for short periods.
Soil Requirements
Heuchera crinita Rydb. thrives in well-draining soils that are acidic to slightly alkaline, with pH levels ranging from 5.0 to 7.5. The ideal soil type is a loamy or sandy soil rich in organic matter. The plant prefers moist soil conditions, but it can tolerate periods of drought.
Cultivation Methods
Heuchera crinita Rydb., commonly known as hairy alumroot, prefers to grow in a well-draining soil with organic matter. It is recommended to plant the young starters in the fall or spring for the best growth results. The optimum planting depth should be according to the size of the root ball, giving enough space for the roots to grow.
Watering Needs
Heuchera crinita Rydb. prefers to grow in medium moisture soil. However, it is sensitive to overwatering and may lead to root rot. It is recommended to keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated. The plant requires watering regularly, especially during the summer, to prevent the soil from drying out.
Fertilization
Heuchera crinita Rydb. requires proper fertilization for optimum growth. It is recommended to add a slow-release fertilizer with a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium during the spring. The plant can also benefit from adding compost or aged manure into the soil annually before the growing season. The soil pH should be between 6.0 to 7.0 for improved nutrient uptake.
Pruning
Heuchera crinita Rydb. does not require much pruning. However, removing damaged, broken, or diseased leaves can help the plant allocate its resources effectively for growth. Deadheading the flowers after blooming can help the plant channel its energy into the foliage, ultimately improving its aesthetic appeal. It is recommended to prune the plant back to the ground level every three to four years during early spring to rejuvenate the plant.
Propagation of Heuchera Crinita Rydb.
Heuchera crinita Rydb. or commonly known as hairy alumroot, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to North America. It produces a rosette of basal leaves and erect spikes of pink or white flowers. Propagation of Heuchera Crinita Rydb can be done by using various methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Heuchera crinita is by seed. Sow the seeds in a seed tray filled with well-draining soil mix in early spring. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist. The seed tray should be kept in a warm and bright location, with a temperature around 70°F. The seeds should germinate within one to three weeks. After the seedlings have at least two sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground. Keep the soil moist.
Division Propagation
Heuchera Crinita can also be propagated by dividing the plant. This method is best done in early spring when the plant is just starting to grow. Dig up the plant and gently separate it into smaller clumps, ensuring that each division has at least one healthy root system. Replant the divisions into well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until the divisions have established themselves.
Root Cutting Propagation
Another method of propagating Heuchera crinita is through root cuttings. For this method, take a section of root from a mature plant and plant it in a container filled with well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and the container warm. Within a few weeks, new shoots should emerge from the root cutting.
Overall, Heuchera Crinita Rydb. can be propagated by seed, division, and root cuttings. All of these propagation methods are easy to carry out and lead to healthy and vigorous plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Heuchera crinita Rydb.
Heuchera crinita Rydb., commonly known as hairy alumroot, is a native American plant species that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. While this plant is generally healthy and hardy, it may suffer from some pests and diseases that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common pests and diseases that might affect this plant and some ways to manage them:
Pests
1. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can damage the leaves by sucking the sap out of them, leading to a stippled appearance. They can also cause the foliage to turn yellow and eventually die. To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays. You can also introduce predatory mites, such as Phytoseiulus persimilis, into the garden to control spider mites.
2. Leaf miners: Leaf miners are larvae of certain insects that feed on the plant's tissue by tunneling through the leaves. This can cause the foliage to become discolored and distorted. To manage leaf miners, you can remove the infected leaves and destroy them. You can also use insecticidal sprays or introduce parasitic wasps that will prey on the larvae of these insects.
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause a white or grayish powder-like substance to form on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to other diseases and pests. To manage powdery mildew, you can use fungicidal sprays or remove the infected parts of the plant. You can also improve air circulation by pruning the plant and making sure there is enough space between the plants.
2. Phytophthora root rot: Phytophthora root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to decay and die. This can lead to wilting, stunted growth, and eventually, the death of the plant. To manage this disease, you can remove the infected plant and destroy it. You can also make sure the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
By taking some effective measures in controlling the pests and diseases of the Heuchera crinita Rydb., you can keep this plant healthy, strong and beautiful.
