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see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!
Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia), also called heart-leaved foamflower, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the shaded forests of eastern North America. It forms low groundcovers and grows in dense clumps. It typically reaches 15 to 30 cm tall and bears finely toothed, heart-shaped basal leaves. In spring, it produces upright flowering stems bearing many small, starry white to pinkish flowers, adding a bright touch to the understory and shaded gardens.
Medicinal and culinary uses
Medicinally, the whole plant is reported to have diuretic, hepatic, lithontriptic, stomachic, and tonic properties.
Ecological roles
In the understory, foamflower acts as a groundcover that helps retain moisture and limit erosion. Its spring bloom is a nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators; the dense colonies it forms create microhabitats for small invertebrates and enrich the diversity of the forest understory. In Quebec, its spring flowering supports bumblebee queens emerging from winter and hoverflies; the dense cover favours ground beetles and other understory invertebrates.
Foamflower seeds require cold stratification to ensure germination. See the cultivation notes below for more details.
Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.
Sowing and Growing
Technical Details
Seeds per packet:
Family: Saxifragaceae
Scientific name: Tiarella cordifolia
Life cycle: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3
Soil type: Loamy to clayey
Soil moisture level: Dry to humid
Soil - additional attributes: Well-drained, humusy
Light: Part shade, shade
Blooming: May to June
Spacing: 45 cm
Height: 15 to 30 cm
Deer resistance: Moderate
Stratification: 60 to 90 days
Scarification: No
Germination time: 28 days
Sowing depth: 3 mm