Overview
Heuchera richardsonii R. Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela is a member of the saxifrage family, Saxifragaceae. This herbaceous plant is known for its showy flowers and attractive foliage, making it a popular choice for gardeners.Origin
Heuchera richardsonii R. Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela is native to North America, specifically to the Pacific Northwest region of the United States and Canada. It can be found growing in rocky areas, meadows, and forests.Common names
The common name for Heuchera richardsonii R. Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela is hairy alumroot, due to the plant's fuzzy leaves. Other common names for this species include Richardson's alumroot and woolly alumroot.Appearance
Hairy alumroot is a clump-forming perennial with a compact growth habit. The leaves are semi-evergreen and are green with a silver hue. The leaf shape is round to heart-shaped with deep lobes and a serrated edge. At maturity, the leaves can reach up to 3 inches in diameter. The plant grows up to 12 inches tall and produces erect stems that bear panicles of small, pinkish-white flowers in the late spring.Uses
Hairy alumroot is primarily used in landscaping and gardening due to its attractive foliage and floral display. It is also known to be a hardy and low-maintenance plant, making it an excellent choice for novice gardeners. Additionally, some Native American tribes used alumroot medicinally to alleviate pain and as a remedy for colds and flu.Growth Conditions for Heuchera richardsonii R. Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela
Heuchera richardsonii R. Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela, also known as Richardson’s alumroot, is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant that thrives in cool and moist environments. It is commonly found in subalpine locations, on rocky outcrops and slopes, in open woods, and along stream banks.
Light Requirements
Heuchera richardsonii R. Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela prefers partial to full shade and can grow in direct sun as long as the soil is consistently moist. In areas with hot summers, it is best to provide some shade to prevent the plant from drying out.
Temperature Requirements
Richardson’s alumroot is adapted to cold climates and can withstand freezing temperatures down to around -40°C. It can grow in areas with a short growing season and has been found to be winter hardy in USDA hardiness zones 2–8.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate soils with a wide range of pH levels, from acidic to alkaline. However, it is sensitive to high levels of soil salinity and does not tolerate soil compaction. In areas with heavy clay soils, it is recommended to amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and soil structure.
Overall, Richardson’s alumroot is a hardy and adaptable plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions, as long as it is grown in cool and moist environments with well-drained soils rich in organic matter.
Cultivation
Heuchera richardsonii R. Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela is a hardy perennial plant that grows best in well-drained soil and partial to full shade. It can be propagated by division in spring or fall, or from seed sown in spring.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, with the soil remaining consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the summer months, it may need more frequent watering, while in the winter months, it requires less frequent watering.
Fertilization
Heuchera richardsonii R. Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela benefits from fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. It's important not to over-fertilize, which can lead to leaf burn and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is relatively low-maintenance for this plant, with dead or damaged leaves and flowers being removed as necessary. In colder regions, it is advisable to cut back the plant to the ground in the fall to protect it from winter cold.
Propagation of Heuchera richardsonii R. Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela
Heuchera richardsonii R. Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela, commonly known as Hairy alumroot, is a herbaceous perennial plant. It is native to western North America, including Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon. The plant is commonly propagated through various methods that include:
1. Seed Propagation
Seed propagation can be done by sowing the seeds in a well-draining soil mix that includes peat moss and sand. The seeds should be sown on the soil surface, and it is important to avoid burying them. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged and placed in a location that receives bright but indirect sunlight. Germination usually occurs within two to three weeks, and once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
2. Division Propagation
Division propagation is the most common method used for propagating Hairy alumroot. It is best done in spring or early fall when the plant is dormant. The clumps should be carefully lifted from the ground, and the roots should be teased apart. Each division should have several healthy stems and roots. The divisions should then be replanted into well-draining soil, and watered well. It is important to avoid planting the divisions too deep. The plant will establish quickly, and it is important to keep the soil moist during the establishment period.
3. Stem Cuttings Propagation
Stem cuttings can be taken during the growing season from the current year's growth. The stems should be cut into sections that are between three and six inches long, and all but the top two leaves should be removed. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix that includes peat moss and sand. The cuttings should be watered well, covered with a plastic bag and placed in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Rooting usually occurs within two to three weeks, and once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation of Hairy alumroot is relatively easy and can be achieved using any of the methods described above. By propagating your plants, you can increase the number of plants you have, or you can share them with other gardeners.
Disease and Pest Management for Heuchera richardsonii R.Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela
Heuchera richardsonii R.Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela, commonly known as hairy alumroot or Richardson's alumroot, is a beautiful perennial plant that can be affected by a number of diseases and pests. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Crown rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Phytophthora cactorum and can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage this disease, it is important to plant the Heuchera in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering the plant. Remove and destroy any infected plant material.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is caused by a fungal pathogen and can cause leaf spots, stem cankers, and leaf drop in Heuchera. To manage this disease, remove and destroy any infected plant material. Fungicides may also be applied to prevent further spread of the disease.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves of Heuchera. To manage powdery mildew, keep the plant in a location with good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides may also be applied to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pests
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and a fine webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, keep the plant well-watered and spray it with a strong jet of water to knock off the mites. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or neem oil may be used.
Slugs and snails: These pests can cause holes in the leaves and chew on the stem of Heuchera. To manage them, handpick the pests and remove any hiding places such as rocks or plant debris. Copper tape or diatomaceous earth can also be placed around the plant to prevent further damage.
By following these disease and pest management tips for Heuchera richardsonii R.Br. var. hispidior Rosendahl, Butters & Lakela, you can help ensure a healthy and beautiful plant.
