Heuchera americana (American Alumroot)

Heuchera americana is called American Alumroot, a hardy perennial prized for its attractive foliage and tolerance of rocky, dry, shaded habitats. It forms compact clumps of lobed, often mottled or veined leaves. Even the straight species can have foliage ranging in tones of color and veining depending on genetics and growing conditions. 

In late spring to early summer, American alumroot produces delicate, airy sprays of small greenish-white flowers on slender stems that rise above the foliage, adding texture without overwhelming the garden display. The flowers are bell-like and often dangling downwards, giving the genus its other nickname of Coral Bells (which can also refer to several different Heuchera species and hybrids).

Heuchera americana is an early season nectar source for small native bees, syrphid flies, skipper butterflies, and other small pollinators that visit its subtle blossoms. In particular this species supports the Heuchera specialist bee, Colletes aestivalis, or Alumroot cellophane bee, which is dependent upon Heuchera pollen to reproduce.

In landscaping, American alumroot is a versatile species for container gardens, shade gardens, part sun gardens, and native woodland plantings, where its foliage offers year-round interest. Plants will burn in 6+ hours of full sun and lend themselves better to part sun or even deep shade. Soil must be well draining, but otherwise the plants are not picky (heavy clay should be avoided or well amended). 

Alumroot pairs well with companions like Tiarella cordifolia (foamflower), Geranium maculatum (wild geranium), Christmas fern, woodland Carex species, and many spring ephemerals such as trilliums and Virginia bluebells.