Heuchera maxima (Island Alum Root)

Jan 19

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Heuchera maxima
Island Alum Root

Photographed in February

Characteristics

Height: 1 - 2 ft

Width: 2 ft

Hardiness: Very Hardy

Natural Setting: Endemic to the northern Channel Islands where it’s found in chaparral or coastal sage scrub on rocky or sandy cliffs and sea bluffs³

Plant Type: Perennial, Groundcover

Dormancy: Evergreen

Growth Rate: Moderate

Flower Season: Winter-Spring

Soil: Fast draining

Sun Exposure: Along the coast: full sun, partial shade, or full shade. Inland: Full or partial shade

Water Requirements: Low once established

Cold Tolerance: Tolerates cold to 12° F

Overview

Endemic to the Channel Islands where it grows on rocky or sandy cliffs. Good for coastal and woodland gardens as a groundcover in full sun or partial shade. Very pretty when planted in mass under trees or shady areas. Beautiful flowers stand over the leafy foliage in the spring and attract a variety of pollinators. As the name ‘maxima’ suggests, this is California’s largest species of alum root.

Uses

This plant does well when planted under oaks and makes a nice container plant.

Anecdotal Experiences

Extended blooming season especially coastally

Doesn’t need any supplemental water once established, does fine with 2x month or less

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We encourage you to comment below and share your own experiences and recommendations for this species.