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Foamflower Wikimedia Commons
Saxifragaceae

Foamflower

Tiarella cordifolia

Lightness, gentleness, woodland peace.

Family
Saxifragaceae
Genus
Tiarella
Native to
Eastern North America
Bloom season
Spring, Early Summer
Type
Herbaceous perennial
Height
15–30 cm
Sunlight
Part shade to full shade
Soil
Rich, moist, humus-rich
Water
Moderate
Hardiness
3–8
Lifespan
Long-lived perennial

Did you know

  • The name 'foamflower' comes from the appearance of the airy white flower spikes, which look like puffs of foam floating above the leaves.
  • Each tiny star-shaped flower has long projecting stamens that give the cluster a frothy, sparkling look in dappled woodland light.
  • Tiarella is closely related to coral bells (Heuchera), and the two have been crossed to create the hybrid 'Heucherella' with the best of both.
  • The maple-shaped leaves often have dark veining or burgundy markings and stay attractive long after the flowers fade.
  • It spreads slowly by stolons, gradually forming a soft groundcover beneath trees and shrubs.

Color meanings

White

Innocent grace

Uses

  • Shade gardens
  • Woodland borders
  • Native plant gardens
  • Ground covers