Species hairy alum root
blue-green, deeply lobed, broad, Maple-like leave with deep red-brown stems

hairy alum root

Heuchera villosa 'Brownies'

Heuchera villosa 'Brownies' is an ornamental plant species of the saxifrage genus Heuchera. Native to North America, it typically grows in clumps and has hairy, brownish-green leaves. Its stems boast small, white, bell-shaped flowers, blooming in the late spring and summer months. The flower clusters add a unique and interesting dimension to the garden. As the name suggests, hairy alum root prefers a humus-rich, moist soil in partial to full shade. It’s durable and easy to care for, and even tolerant of drought and salt. This ornamental plant spreads via underground rhizomes, but keeps a relatively tidy look even in smaller spaces. Suitable companion plants include other shade-loving perennials, such as hostas and Solomon’s seal.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

bronze,purple,brown

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Hairy alum root should be watered deeply and infrequently. It is best to water the plant once a week in the growing season, providing about 1 inch of water at a time. During the hot summer months, the plant may require 2 or 3 times a week of watering, providing more water each time. Additionally, during extreme heat or drought, slightly more water should be provided. In the winter months, slightly less water is necessary since the cold weather keeps the plant from actively growing. It should be watered about once every 3 weeks for the winter.

sunlight

Hairy alum root (Heuchera villosa 'Brownies') grows best in full sunlight, particularly in the morning. This plant prefers at least 6 – 8 hours of direct sunlight on a daily basis during its growing season. During the summer months, it is best to provide late afternoon shade for the plant to avoid scorching due to the intense heat. During the winter, while the plant is dormant, it is important to provide some light for the plant as well. For hairy alum root, this should be about 4 hours of sun exposure each day.

pruning

Hairy Alum Root, or Heuchera villosa 'Brownies', should be pruned in late spring or early summer to maintain an attractive form. The entire plant can be cut back to within 3-4 inches of the ground for a hard prune. This will spur new growth and should be done every few years. For regular trimming, simply remove old, damaged, or discolored foliage to the desired height. This should be done in the later summer months. Keep in mind that this plant can become woody, so it is best to prune out these older stems as needed.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Heuchera villosa 'Brownies' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Heuchera villosa 'Brownies' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map