Description
Tiarella cordifolia | Foam flower
Discover the charming allure of Tiarella cordifolia, commonly known as the foam flower or coolwort. This delightful perennial is prized for its lush, heart-shaped leaves and the frothy white blooms that grace gardens in the cooler months of spring. Native to the woodlands of Eastern North America, Tiarella cordifolia thrives in the dappled light beneath tree canopies, offering a serene beauty to shaded areas.
Key Features
Tiarella cordifolia is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking an evergreen ground cover with a graceful growth habit. This species is well-suited for:
- Creating a soft border or enhancing the edge of a shaded garden path.
- Group or mass planting where its creeping, widespread growth habit can be admired.
- Sub-planting beneath taller perennials or shrubs, as it will not compete aggressively for space.
- Adding texture and color to the garden throughout the year, with foliage that transitions to a beautiful bronze hue in autumn.
Despite its delicate appearance, the coolwort is robust and maintains its vibrant green foliage year-round, adding an enduring splash of color to any garden.
Tips
- To ensure the health and vitality of your Tiarella cordifolia, plant it in a location that receives partial to full shade. This will mimic its natural woodland habitat.
- While adaptable to a variety of soil types, it is paramount that the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot. Aiming for soil that is rich in organic matter will yield the best results.
- Regular watering is necessary to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during prolonged dry spells. However, be cautious not to overwater.
- Propagation through division not only stimulates new growth but also helps to maintain the vigor of the plant. Divide Tiarella cordifolia in the spring or autumn to give the new plants time to establish before the extremes of summer or winter.
- Minimal pruning is needed. Simply remove any damaged or spent foliage to keep your foam flowers looking their best.