Tiarella Cordifolia is an exotic plant from North America. It belongs to the Saxifragaceae family and is a perennial flowering plant. Foamflowers are night-blooming plants like the moonflower. It is a low-growing plant used as ground cover.
The distinguishing feature of the Tiarella plant is the array of small white flowers it has. These grow in clusters on long stems, surrounded by leaves. Its leaves are heart-shaped and deep green in color with slight variegation. They are quite dense, which makes them good groundcover plants.
You can grow tiarellas indoors as an ornamental plant. And since they are non-toxic, they can be grown around kids and pets. Still, it is best to avoid eating them, as they might cause slight stomach upset.
| Botanical Name | Tiarella Cordifolia |
| Common Names | Heartleaf Foamflower plant |
| Origin | North America |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial flowering plant |
| Full Size | Ranges from 1 foot to 3 feet tall |
| Sun Exposure | Bright but filtered sunlight can tolerate full or direct sunlight |
| Soil Type | Well-draining, loamy soil, a little acidic |
| Toxicity | Non toxic to pets and people |
Tiarella Cordifolia Varieties
There are several hybrid cultivars of the foam flower plant in existence. These cultivars possess unique qualities in color and size. Here are a few.
- Pink skyrocket foam flower
- Sugar and spice foamflower
- Tiarella Brandywine
- Tiarella running tapestry
Foamflower Care Guide
Tiarella Cordifolia foamflower is considered low-maintenance. It does need occasional pruning to look fresh and healthy. But overall, its lighting and watering needs are pretty simple. The native tiarella should make a great ground cover for you.
Tiarella Foamflower Lighting Requirements
Lighting requirements for the tiarella is quite easy. They do well under bright but filtered sunlight. They can also tolerate full shade but too little light can affect their appearance. Insufficient lighting can leave them looking a little leggy.
Prolonged exposure to direct or full sunlight can be dangerous. The night-blooming plants’ leaves are delicate. And the excess sunlight can cause sunburns. But the morning sunlight can be great for the foamflower plant.
The best spot to keep the exotic plant is a north facing window. An east facing window also works, as they can get access to the morning sun. But avoid sunny south facing windows. If you must grow foam flowers there, then provide shade with a light cloth.
Watering Foam Flowers
Water is essential to the exotic plant’s growth. They need frequent watering during the hot and dry seasons. Do this once a week during hot seasons. You should check the moisture level of the soil first before watering.
The tiarella can survive a little drought, but long periods can be harmful. So stick your finger in the soil and ensure the top part of the soil is a little dry. If it is, then you can water the plant. When watering, ensure it is deep and thorough. And do not water the leaves, instead water the soil.
Rainwater or dechlorinated water is best for watering. It is free from chlorine which can cause chemical burns on the leaves. And ensure it is at room temperature to not stress the plant’s root.
Soil Requirements for the Foamflower Plant
Loamy soil is ideal for foam flowers. It is well-draining and still able to hold in moisture. You should add some organic compost, to make the soil rich. The pH level should be a little acidic, Aim for a range between 6.5 and 7.0.
Humidity and Temperature Needs for the Tiarella Cordifolia
Humidity and temperature levels should be kept on average level. A range between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit should be perfect. It is cold hard, so it can tolerate some level of cold. You do not need to mist the foamflower plant. So keep humidity at an average level.
Fertilizer Needs For The Foamflower Plant
Foamflower groundcover plants are light feeders. They almost do not need fertilizer to thrive. If you must use fertilizer, then a complete, low-strength fertilizer should be enough. The fertilizer should be used in its active growing season.
Propagating Foamflower plant
You can propagate the stunning plant through its foamflower seeds. Or by dividing its clumps. The seeds should be planted in the fall or spring seasons.
Common Health Problems of Tiarella Cordifolia
Tiarellas are quite sturdy. They don’t suffer many pest attacks. They are however prone to the following;
- Root rot
- Powdery mildew
- Slugs and snails
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there are reports of the foamflower plant growing in the Adirondack Mountains.
Because tiarellas are cold hardy, they are best left alone in the fall.
No, they are rather well-mannered and not invasive at all
The Tiarella is a rather small genus. It has about 8 accepted species in the world.
Tiarellas have an average growth rate. Taking 2 weeks to show signs of germination.
