Alum Root
Heuchera micranthafam. Saxifragaceae
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Pl. 1D2F — Heuchera micrantha
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IOverview
Overview
Alum Root (Heuchera micrantha) is a perennial herb native to the Pacific Northwest of North America, including British Columbia, California, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Known for its ornamental value due to its attractive foliage in shades of green, red, or bronze, this plant thrives in moist, light to partial shade conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and can grow up to 0.7 meters tall. Alum Root is also edible; its leaves are often used in culinary applications. Its distinctive feature lies in the colorful foliage that adds a vibrant touch to any garden setting.
Quick answers
What is Alum Root?
Alum Root (Heuchera micrantha) is a perennial herb native to the Pacific Northwest of North America, including British Columbia, California, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Alum Root thrives in partial sun to full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It is hardy in zones 4-9 and can grow up to 0.7 meters tall. For best results, plant it in well-draining soil and ensure it has consistent moisture. Propagate through division of clumps or by sowing seeds. The edible parts are the leaves, which can be used fresh or cooked.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
4-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.7 m tall
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, containers if planting in pots.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Alum Root in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nursery pots directly into the garden or start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outdoors.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for a week after planting.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade, especially in hot climates. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Fertilize sparingly with compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain plant health and appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using heavy fertilizers, neglecting to prune, not providing enough shade.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Alum Root (Heuchera micrantha) are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their slightly bitter taste. The leaves can also be steamed or added to soups and stews for flavoring. Skip the detailed preparation instructions as they were not provided in the data.
Other uses:HairMordantGround cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native· 1 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Austria
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Idaho, Oregon, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Saxifragaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Saxifragaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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