Alum Root
Heuchera cylindrica
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Pl. E0F7 — Heuchera cylindrica
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IOverview
Overview
Alum Root (Heuchera cylindrica) is a perennial herb native to the western United States and Canada, found in habitats ranging from Alberta to California and Idaho. Known for its edible leaves, this plant thrives in moist conditions with light to partial shade. It prefers sandy or medium soil with a pH between 7 and 8, making it adaptable but specific about its growing environment. Alum Root reaches a height of about 0.5 meters and is valued not only for its ornamental qualities but also for its culinary uses.
Quick answers
What is Alum Root?
Alum Root (Heuchera cylindrica) is a perennial herb native to the western United States and Canada, found in habitats ranging from Alberta to California and Idaho. Known for its edible leaves, this plant thrives in moist conditions with light to partial shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Alum Root thrives in partial sun to full sun and prefers moist, light (sandy) to medium soils with a pH of 7-8. It is hardy in zones 4-8 and grows as a perennial, reaching heights of about 0.5 meters. For best results, propagate by division or seed. Harvest the edible leaves for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
Soil pH
7–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Alum Root for the first time
8steps
Start with Alum Root as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Alum Root plants or seeds, potting soil if container planting, and a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH of 7-8. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nursery pots directly into the garden or start seeds indoors in spring.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for a week.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and stems in late winter to maintain plant health and appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using incorrect soil pH.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Alum Root (Heuchera cylindrica) are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild flavor and texture. Skip
Other uses:MordantGround cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 9 native
Broader regions
native:Alberta, British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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