Hairy Alumroot
heuchera villosa
Also known as: ["Villous Alumroot","Coral Bells"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to eastern North America, known for its attractive foliage and delicate flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Heuchera |
| Botanical Name: | Heuchera villosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with good air circulation, 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: Moderately well-draining; avoid heavy clay soils.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter like compost or leaf mold.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged foliage.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade (4–6 hours of morning sun). Tolerates more sun with adequate moisture; shade preferred in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in dappled shade outdoors; protect from intense afternoon sun indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, rich, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil doesn’t stay waterlogged; amend heavy soils with organic matter; test pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler nights and can withstand light frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization which can burn roots; apply before new growth emerges.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; trim leggy stems to promote bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; thin crowded stems to improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as needed; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; inspect roots; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from freezing winds; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in extreme heat above 85°F (29°C), especially with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use evaporative cooling or misting.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during active growth; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHeuchera villosa is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known toxins that would harm felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHeuchera villosa is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHeuchera villosa is not considered toxic to humans. It is commonly used in ornamental gardens and does not pose a significant risk of poisoning.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much light does Heuchera villosa need?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens.
Q: Is Heuchera villosa deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant due to its fuzzy leaves.
Q: Does Heuchera villosa require special soil?
A: It prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil with consistent moisture.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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