Overview
Heuchera cylindrica Dougl. ex Hook. var. suksdorfii (Rydb.) Dorn is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Saxifrage family Saxifragaceae. It is commonly known as American Alumroot or Suksdorf's Alumroot. This plant is native to western North America and can be found growing in rocky or gravelly areas.
Appearance
American Alumroot is a beautiful plant that can grow up to a height of 30cm and a width of 45cm. It has a basal rosette of evergreen leaves that are dark green and semi-succulent in nature. The leaves have a heart-shaped appearance and are deeply lobed with toothed edges. The plant produces a slender inflorescence that bears tiny bell-shaped flowers that are pink in color. The flowers bloom during spring and early summer and attract bees and butterflies.
Uses
Heuchera cylindrica Dougl. ex Hook. var. suksdorfii (Rydb.) Dorn has various uses. The plant's leaves and roots contain tannins, which have astringent properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat wounds, stomach ulcers, and dysentery. The plant is also used in landscaping and gardening as a decorative plant or as a ground cover. Suksdorf's Alumroot is drought-tolerant and can grow in different soil types. It is also resistant to deer and rabbits.
Cultivation
American Alumroot is an easy-to-grow plant that can grow in full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soils that are moist and rich in organic matter. The plant can be propagated through division in spring or fall. Ensure that the young plants are kept hydrated for a few weeks until they establish a strong root system. American Alumroot can also be propagated through seeds. Sow the seeds in a well-prepared seedbed and cover them lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist and warm. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots and keep them in a greenhouse until they are well-established.
Light Requirements
The Heuchera cylindrica Dougl. ex Hook. var. suksdorfii (Rydb.) Dorn plant typically prefers partial shade to full sun. It requires a minimum of 4-6 hours of sunlight a day to grow properly. However, in hot climates, it may need some protection from the sun in the afternoon to avoid scorching of the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
Heuchera cylindrica Dougl. ex Hook. var. suksdorfii (Rydb.) Dorn thrives in cool and moist conditions, making it ideal for growing in mild to cool temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this evergreen perennial plant is 60-75 °F (15-24 °C). It is important to note that it is quite hardy and can survive cold winters. However, it might not survive very hot summers.
Soil Requirements
Heuchera cylindrica Dougl. ex Hook. var. suksdorfii (Rydb.) Dorn requires well-draining, fertile soil. It prefers soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant may not grow well in alkaline soils with a pH of over 7.5. It also grows well in soil that is rich in organic matter, such as compost. It is essential to avoid waterlogged soils, which can cause root rot and stunted growth.
Cultivation Methods
Heuchera cylindrica Dougl. ex Hook. var. suksdorfii (Rydb.) Dorn, commonly known as the roundleaf alumroot, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to western North America. The plant thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter and acidic in nature. It requires full sun to partial shade and can be propagated through division or seed.
When planting, ensure that you loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and add organic matter such as peat moss, compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil texture and nutrient content. As the plant forms a dense clump, ensure that you leave enough spacing between the plants, at least 12-18 inches apart.
Watering Needs
The roundleaf alumroot requires moderate watering. It prefers evenly moist soil, but not waterlogged conditions. Watering the plant once a week during summer and once every two weeks during winter is sufficient. Ensure that the soil is adequately drained, as standing water can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
It is important to fertilize the plant regularly to promote vigorous growth and healthy foliage. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, during the spring or early summer. Ensure that you follow the package instructions for application rates.
Pruning
Pruning the roundleaf alumroot is not necessary, but removing the dead or yellowing leaves can improve the overall plant appearance. Cut off the damaged leaves at the base, close to the stem. Additionally, remove the flower spikes after they have finished blooming to encourage a second flush of flowers. This practice will also prevent the plant from self-seeding.
Propagation of Heuchera cylindrica Dougl. ex Hook. var. suksdorfii (Rydb.) Dorn
Heuchera cylindrica Dougl. ex Hook. var. suksdorfii (Rydb.) Dorn, also known as Suksdorf's alumroot, can be propagated through various methods. Some commonly used propagation methods include:
Division
Division is an effective method of propagating Heuchera cylindrica var. suksdorfii. This method involves dividing the root ball of a fully grown plant into smaller sections and replanting each section to form a new plant. Division is best done in spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another way to propagate Heuchera cylindrica var. suksdorfii. For this method, take a cutting from the stem of the plant. It is best to take cuttings in early summer when the plant is actively growing. Remove the lower leaves from the stem and place the cutting in a potting mix. Keep the soil lightly moist and in a bright, indirect light until roots form.
Seed
Propagation through seeds is also possible for Heuchera cylindrica var. suksdorfii. Collect seeds from the plant once the flowers have faded and the seed heads have dried. Sow the seeds in a potting mix, and keep them moist until they germinate. This method can take longer to produce a fully grown plant, so it is not the most common propagation method.
Overall, propagating Heuchera cylindrica var. suksdorfii is relatively easy and can be done through division, cuttings, or seed, depending on the individual's preference and available resources.
Disease and Pest Management for Heuchera cylindrica Dougl. ex Hook. var. suksdorfii (Rydb.) Dorn
Heuchera cylindrica Dougl. ex Hook. var. suksdorfii (Rydb.) Dorn is a hardy perennial plant that is known for its attractive foliage and colorful flowers. However, this plant is susceptible to some diseases and pests that can impact its health. The following are some common problems that may affect Heuchera cylindrica and ways to manage them:
Diseases:
Crown Rot: Crown rot is a fungal disease that can kill Heuchera cylindrica. It is caused by waterlogged soil that encourages the growth of the fungus. The first signs of crown rot include yellowing leaves and a foul smell. To manage crown rot, remove and destroy affected plants and avoid planting in areas with poorly-draining soil.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that shows up as yellow or orange spots on the leaves. It can cause the leaves to become deformed, and may eventually kill the plant. To manage rust, use a fungicide that is labeled for use on Heuchera cylindrica and prune affected leaves.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves. It can cause the leaves to drop prematurely and is most common in warm, humid weather. To manage anthracnose, use a fungicide that is labeled for use on Heuchera cylindrica and avoid overhead watering.
Pests:
Vine Weevil: Vine weevils are small beetles that feed on the plant's roots and can weaken or kill the plant. Signs of vine weevils include notches in the leaves and wilting. To manage vine weevils, use a biological control such as nematodes or an insecticide labeled for use on Heuchera cylindrica.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that can cause damage to Heuchera cylindrica. They feed on the leaves and can cause holes and yellowing. To manage slugs and snails, use a trap or bait or hand-pick them off the plant.
By following these tips for managing diseases and pests, you can help keep your Heuchera cylindrica healthy and beautiful.
