The scientific name of Heucherella plant
is x Heucherella tiarelloides and the plant is a cross between 2 closely
related plants – Heuchera, which is commonly known as coral bells, and
Tiarellia cordifolia, also commonly known as foamflower. Actually the “x” in
the name is an indication that the plant is a hybrid, or a cross between 2
separate plants. The heucherella plant offers many of the benefits of its two
parent plants. Continue reading to learn more about heucherella plant.
The Heucherella plant and heuchera plant
are both North American natives and they are both suitable for growing in USDA
plant hardiness zones four through nine. The Heucherella plant is often grown
as a groundcover or border plant, the plant inherited the attractive foliage of
the heuchera plant, although the heart-shaped leaves are usually smaller. The
foamy-looking heucherella blooms (reminiscent of foamflower) are actually available
in shades of pink, cream and white. The Heucherella plant is more resistant to
rust disease and they also tend to be more tolerant of both heat and humidity.
Otherwise, the differences in color and form of the two plants depend largely
on the variety, as both are available in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Growing Heucherella Plant
The heucherella plant is not difficult
to grow, however a well-drained soil is critical to prevent the roots from
drowning. You can easily amend the soil before planting with compost or
well-rotted manure. Most heucherella varieties prefer shade, though the plant
can tolerate more sun in cooler climates. Darker leaves also tend to be more
sun tolerant once they are established. While the heucherella plant is
relatively drought tolerant, the plant also benefits from occasional watering
during warm, dry weather. Do not allow the heucherella plant to become badly
wilted, but be careful not to overwater, as the plant is prone to rot in soggy,
poorly drained soil. The heucherella plant is a low feeder; however the plant
benefits from regular applications of a water-soluble fertilizer mixed at half
strength. Make sure you avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can cause
spindly growth. Replant the heucherella plant in freshly amended soil every 3
or 4 years to keep the plant healthy and vibrant. You can discard the oldest
part of the crown.
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