Heuchera richardsonii.
Prairie Alumroot is a perennial wildflower native to the midwestern United States where it can be found growing in prairies and open woods.
Plant grows to about 2 feet in height and produces tall stalks with green to cream colored flowers that bloom from May through July, making it an early-season source of pollen for bees and butterflies.
Historically used as a substitute for alum, the powder used to preserve crispness during the pickling process.
Prairie Alumroot
Growth Chart
Hardiness Zones: 3 to 8 Light Requirement: Full to partial sun Soil Type: Rich, well-drained Sow Depth: Surface Plant Spacing: 8 to 12 inches Germination Note: Cold stratification required Stratification Time: 30 days Bloom Time: May through July Growing Tips
Direct sow in late fall by lightly pressing the seeds into the soil's surface. For spring planting, mix the seeds with moist sand and store in the refrigerator for 30 days prior to planting.
A Note on Cold Stratification
These seeds require cold, moist stratification. To naturally stratify the seeds, plant outdoors late fall on a weed-free site and allow seeds to overwinter.
To artificially stratify the seeds, place the seeds and a moist medium (such as a damp paper towel, coffee filter, sand, or vermiculite) in a labeled, sealed plastic bag and store in a refrigerator (33-40°F) for the amount of time noted on the growth chart before sowing.