How to Grow Tiarella Plants
Guide to Growing : Foam flower, Coolwort, and Laceflower
Tiarella are hardy perennial woodland plants that range from 30 to 60 cm (12 to 24 inches) in height.
They have heart shaped green leaves that change in colour to red in the autumn.
Tiarella (Foamflower) by Matleena Laakso.
Tiarella plants come into bloom from late in spring through to early summer, when they carry feathery white flowers on spikes.
A common name for Garden Tiarella is the Foam Flower.
Commonly Grown Tiarella Species
Tiarella cordifolia
Tiarella cordifolia (Heartleaved Foamflower / False Miterwort / Coolwort), photograph by Charles de Mille-Isles; CC.
Tiarella trifoliata
Tiarella trifoliata (Threeleaf foamflower), photograph by Leslie Seaton; CC.
Tiarella polyphylla
Tiarella polyphylla (Foam Flower), picture by Virginia State Parks; CC.
Tiarella Growing and Care Guide
- Common Names: Foam flower, Coolwort, Laceflower, Sugar-scoop, False miterwort.
- Life Cycle: Hardy perennial.
- Height: 12 to 20 inches (30—50 cm).
- Native: North America, Asia.
- Growing Region: Zones 3 to 8.
Seed: Method 1: Seeds should first be sown into flats in the autumn. Next sink the flat into the ground in an area that offers shade, preferably close to a wall that faces north. Provide a glass/plastic covering. Keep an eye on the flats to ensure that the soil remains moist. Bring the flats indoor at the beginning of spring and keep at 50°F (10°C). Transplant seedlings outdoors following the last frost.
Seed: Method 2: In the spring, sow seeds on a moist growing medium in flats, wrap in a large plastic bag, then stratify by refrigeration for three weeks. Next bury the flat as described above. Transplant seedlings to their final location in the autumn.
How to Grow Tiarella species such as Foam Flower
The seeds of the Foam flower should first be grown in flats, and they can be sown in either the autumn or spring; seeds should be sown on the surface.
If planting in flats in the autumn then sink the flat in a shady area and cover in glass; keep soil moist; bring indoors for the winter when it starts to get very cold.
If growing Tiarella plants in the spring then first imbibe the seeds by putting the flat in a black bag, then placing in the fridge for three weeks. Next sink the flat into a shady part of the garden, cover with glass and keep moist.
Once young foam flower seedlings appear remove the glass and allow to grow in situ; transplant the seedlings to their final location in the autumn.
The Tiarella plant can grow in either shady or partially shaded areas and likes a cool acidic soil (pH 5 to 6), that is rich, well drained, and moist.
The plants should be spaced from 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches) apart (small Tiarella) to 30 to 60 cm (1 to 2 feet) apart (larger varieties).
Caring for Tiarella
It is fairly easy to look after Foam Flowers and other Tiarella, they are woodland plants so enjoy a cool moist soil. Ideally, apply a wood chip mulch to help maintain soil moisture and coolness, and water regularly.
If you require more plants then they can be propagated by division in the spring.
Common Questions
How many members does the Tiarella genus have?
The Tiarella genus, commonly known as Foamflower, includes about 7 species.
Do members of Tiarella make a good garden or landscaping plant?
Yes, Tiarella species are excellent garden plants, prized for their attractive foliage and delicate white or pink flowers. They're perfect for shady woodland gardens or as groundcovers.
Which Tiarella species are most frequently grown by gardeners?
Tiarella cordifolia, known as Heartleaf Foamflower, is the most commonly grown species in gardens.
Are members of the Tiarella plant genus fragrant?
Tiarella plants are not typically fragrant, but their charming blooms and decorative leaves make them a garden favorite.
What is the perfect location to grow Tiarella?
Tiarella prefers a partially shaded location with moist, well-drained soil. It's a great choice for woodland gardens or shaded borders.
Is Tiarella invasive in the USA, if so in which states?
Currently, Tiarella is not known to be invasive in the USA. Always check local guidelines for the most accurate information.
How do I remove Tiarella plants from my garden?
To remove Tiarella, uproot the entire plant, making sure to remove all roots to prevent regrowth.
Summary
The Tiarella plant genus belongs to the family Saxifragaceae. This genus is composed of around six to seven species of herbaceous perennials native to the woodlands of North America and Asia.
For successful growth, Tiarella prefers shady conditions and moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. They can be propagated by seed in the autumn or by division in the spring. The plants are known for their charming white or pink flowers and their deeply cut leaves.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Tiarella plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Rodgersia and Bergenia plants.
Found the insights on this site valuable? Then you're going to love my book: 'The Gardener's HQ Plant Growing Guide'.
Upon purchase, receive the eBook in PDF, MOBI (for Kindle), and ePub (most e-readers and iPad) formats. Also available from Amazon USA, Amazon UK, and iBooks.
Genus Index T
