Dwarf Coral Bell
heuchera micrantha
Also known as: ["Alumroot","Rock Geranium"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant known for its attractive foliage and delicate flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Heuchera |
| Botanical Name: | Heuchera micrantha |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 months during the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or overgrown stems unless significant reshaping is required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in filtered light during peak summer hours; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide dappled light in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid compacted soil; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates and may struggle in excessive heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in late fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat moss and perlite or coarse sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic wrap or propagator, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterilized tools to prevent infection; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back growing tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove yellowing or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged foliage, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and preventing overcrowding.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Mix perlite or coarse sand for drainage; add compost or peat moss for fertility and moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf discoloration or root rot in cold, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause root damage, especially if combined with wet soil.
Solution: Protect from frost with a layer of mulch; ensure well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with dry soil.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase watering frequency to keep soil consistently moist; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHeuchera micrantha is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHeuchera micrantha is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHeuchera micrantha is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Heuchera micrantha be watered?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week.
Q: Does Heuchera micrantha require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Heuchera turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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