Foamflower – Rosales Saxifragaceae Tiarella cordifolia

Identification & Description:
An evergreen perennial growing to 0.2m by 0.5m . It is hardy to zone 3. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to June. The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by Insects. We rate it 1 out of 5 for usefulness.

This woodland favorite puts on an impressive show of dense white spires in midspring. The handsome “mapleleaf” foliage is attractive all summer long, turning a beautiful red in autumn. Grows luxuriantly in well-drained, rich soils, in light to medium shade. The white flowers are often accented with a tinge of pink. Perfect for mixing with lower-growing woodland flowers, so that the foliage can show off all year long.

The plant prefers light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and requires well-drained soil. The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It requires moist soil.

Characteristics
• Family: Saxifrage (Saxifragaceae)
• Habitat: rich woods
• Height: 6-12 inches
• Flower size: 1/4 inch wide
• Flower color: white
• Flowering time: April to June
• Origin: native

Habitats and Possible Locations
Woodland, Dappled Shade, Shady Edge, Deep Shade, Ground Cover.

Other Uses
Ground cover.
Can be used as a ground cover plant. It is rather slow to spread, though, and needs weeding for the first year or so. Plants should be spaced about 60cm apart each way. This is one of the most attractive and prolific ground cover plants.