Origin
Heuchera micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. var. erubescens (A. Braun & Bouché) Rosendahl, commonly known as the creeping alumroot, is a flowering plant species native to North America. It can be found mainly in the Western region of North America, particularly in the United States and Canada.
Common Names
Creeping alumroot is the most commonly used name for Heuchera micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. var. erubescens, but it also has several other common names such as Small-flowered alumroot, Rosy alumroot, and Red alumroot. These names give an indication of the plant's appearance and the rosy-red color of its leaves and stems.
Uses
Creeping alumroot has several uses in traditional medicine, including the treatment of various medical conditions such as fever and inflammation. Additionally, some Native American groups have used it to treat diarrhea and other digestive issues. Gardeners also grow creeping alumroot for its ornamental value. The plant’s leaves and stems have a unique and attractive coloring, and it's perfect for adding color and texture to a garden.
General Appearance
Heuchera micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. var. erubescens has glossy, green basal foliage, with the leaves getting reddish or brownish in the center as they mature. Its leaves are rounded and can have up to 5 deep lobes, with a diameter of up to 15 centimeters. The plant grows up to 50 centimeters tall, with a spread of up to 45 centimeters. The flowers bloom from late spring to mid-summer and can vary in color from white or pale pink to dark red. The creeping alumroot is a low growing plant that thrives in partially shaded areas or regions with high humidity.
Light Requirements
Heuchera micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. var. erubescens (A. Braun & Bouché) Rosendahl prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. In areas with hot summers, it is best to plant them in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. In contrast, in cooler regions, it can tolerate more direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Heuchera micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. var. erubescens (A. Braun & Bouché) Rosendahl growth is between 15 to 24°C (59 to 75°F). It can tolerate a minimum temperature of -29°C (-20°F) in winter. However, if the temperature goes higher than 29°C (84°F) or lower than -29°C (-20°F) for an extended period, it can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Heuchera micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. var. erubescens (A. Braun & Bouché) Rosendahl grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The optimal soil pH is between 6 to 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil textures, including clay, sandy, or loamy soils. However, they prefer slightly acidic soils over alkaline types. It is best to avoid waterlogged soil conditions as it can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods for Heuchera Micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. Var. Erubescens (A. Braun & Bouché) Rosendahl
Heuchera micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. var. erubescens (A. Braun & Bouché) Rosendahl, commonly known as coral bells, is a hardy perennial plant that is relatively easy to cultivate and grow. These plants prefer well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.0 and thrive in full sun to partial shade. When planting, ensure that you space them at least 18 inches apart to allow enough room for their roots to spread.
Watering Needs of Heuchera Micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. Var. Erubescens (A. Braun & Bouché) Rosendahl
In terms of watering, coral bells require moderate watering, which means you should water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal infections, so it's important to avoid watering excessively. These plants also do well with occasional misting, which can help increase humidity levels.
Fertilization of Heuchera Micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. Var. Erubescens (A. Braun & Bouché) Rosendahl
When it comes to fertilization, coral bells require regular feeding to maintain optimal growth. Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer once in spring and again in mid-summer. You can also supplement with a liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season to help the plant thrive.
Pruning of Heuchera Micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. Var. Erubescens (A. Braun & Bouché) Rosendahl
Pruning helps to rejuvenate the plant, remove any damaged or dead leaves, and encourage fresh growth. In general, it's best to prune coral bells in early spring before new growth appears. Use a sharp pair of clippers or scissors to remove any dead leaves or stems at the base of the plant. Be sure not to remove more than one-third of the plant at a time, as this can damage its health.
Propagation of Heuchera micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. var. erubescens (A. Braun & Bouché) Rosendahl
Heuchera micrantha Dougl. ex Lindl. var. erubescens (A. Braun & Bouché) Rosendahl, commonly known as alum root, is a hardy herbaceous perennial plant that is native to North America. This plant can be propagated in several ways, including:
Division
Division is one of the easiest ways to propagate Heuchera micrantha var. erubescens. It involves separating the plant into smaller sections – each with its own set of roots and leaves. This method is typically done in the spring when new growth can be seen.
To propagate Heuchera micrantha var. erubescens through division, first, select a healthy plant that is at least two years old. Carefully dig around the perimeter of the plant, being careful not to damage the roots. Once the plant is out of the ground, use a sharp knife or pruning shears to divide it into several sections. Each section should have several healthy-looking leaves and a good set of roots. Replant the sections in their desired location and water them well.
Seed
Another way to propagate Heuchera micrantha var. erubescens is through seed propagation. Collect the seeds in the fall, dry them, and store them in an airtight container. In the spring, sow the seeds in trays or pots filled with seed starting soil. Cover the seeds lightly with soil, and water them well. Keep the soil moist, and place the containers in a sunny location. In about a week, the seedlings should begin to emerge. As the plants grow, they can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden.
Leaf Cuttings
Heuchera micrantha var. erubescens can also be propagated through leaf cuttings. This method is best done in the spring when new growth appears. Select a healthy leaf from the plant, and with a sharp knife, cut it at the base. Ensure the cutting has a stem attached to it. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and place it in a pot of well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a shady location. In about six weeks, the cutting should have roots and can be transplanted to its permanent location in the garden.
Disease Management:
Heuchera micrantha var. erubescens is susceptible to several diseases, including powdery mildew, root rots, and bacterial leaf spot. Powdery mildew, a fungal disease, first appears as white patches on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and fall off. Root rots cause the roots to decay, leading to stunted growth and wilting of the leaves. Bacterial leaf spot affects the leaves and causes dark spots with yellow halos.
To manage powdery mildew, ensure that the plants receive adequate air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Remove and dispose of infected plant parts immediately to prevent further spread. Several fungicides are also available and can be used as per label instructions.
To manage root rots, avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil has proper drainage. If the plant is severely infected, it may be best to remove it and start over in a new location with well-draining soil.
To manage bacterial leaf spot, remove and dispose of infected plant parts immediately, and avoid overhead watering. Several copper-based fungicides are available and can be used as per label instructions.
Pest Management:
Heuchera micrantha var. erubescens is susceptible to several pests, including aphids, spider mites, and slugs. Aphids and spider mites suck the sap from the leaves, causing the leaves to wilt and deform. Slugs chew holes through the leaves.
To manage aphids and spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil as per label instructions. You can also release natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to control the population. Ensure that the plants receive adequate moisture as stressed plants are more susceptible to pest infestations.
To manage slugs, remove any debris or mulch from around the plant as they provide an ideal habitat for slugs. You can also use slug bait or copper barriers to deter slugs. Beer traps are also an effective way to control the population.
