Richardson’s alumroot (Heuchera richardsonii, J.Franklin, Narr. Journey Polar Sea: 766 (1823))

Family: Saxifragaceae

Author: R.Br.

Bibliography: J.Franklin, Narr. Journey Polar Sea: 766 (1823)

Year: 1823

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Heuchera

Vegetable: False

Observations: Subarctic America to N. U.S.A.

Description

Richardson’s alumroot, scientifically known as Heuchera richardsonii, is a unique and resilient plant native to a vast geographical range that stretches from subarctic regions of America down to the northern United States. This herbaceous perennial is part of the Saxifragaceae family, a diverse group of flowering plants that thrive in various temperate environments.

Characterized by its rosette of lobed leaves and delicate, bell-shaped flowers, Richardson’s alumroot exhibits a robust adaptability to its native habitats, often found flourishing in rocky terrains, woodlands, and prairies. The foliage typically presents a vibrant green hue, transitioning into warmer tones as the seasons change, and the flower stems rise gracefully above the leaves, bearing clusters of tiny blooms that attract a variety of pollinators.

The plant’s hardiness and ornamental appeal make it a favored choice for gardeners looking to add texture and beauty to shaded or partially shaded garden areas. Moreover, its ecological benefits extend beyond aesthetics. Heuchera richardsonii plays a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems, providing nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, and serving as ground cover that helps to prevent soil erosion.

Historical botanical references to Richardson’s alumroot date back to its formal description by the botanist Robert Brown, as noted in J. Franklin’s 1823 “Narrative of a Journey to the Shores of the Polar Sea.” This early documentation underscores the plant’s long-standing recognition and importance within botanical studies and horticulture.

In summary, Richardson’s alumroot is a hardy and attractive plant deeply rooted in its native landscape, valued for both its ecological contributions and its ornamental qualities. It stands as a testament to the rich botanical diversity found in the subarctic and northern U.S. regions.

Common Names

Eng: richardson’s alumroot
Fra: heuchère de richardson
En: Richardson’s alumroot
Fr: Heuchère de Richardson

Synonyms

• Heuchera richardsonii var. typica (Rosend., Butters & Lakela)
• Heuchera richardsonii var. affinis (Rosend., Butters & Lakela)
• Heuchera hispida var. richardsonii ((R.Br.) Rydb.)
• Heuchera richardsonii var. grayana (Rosend., Butters & Lakela)
• Heuchera richardsonii var. hispidior (Rosend., Butters & Lakela)

Distribution

• Alberta (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Wisconsin (native)
• Wyoming (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Sep 7, 2021 by L dVL (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 11, 2022 by Yoann Lussier (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 22, 2021 by Dave Gottschalk (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 11, 2022 by Yoann Lussier (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 19, 2022 by Courtney Montgomery (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 21, 2020 by Florian Savary (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − MBG (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 16, 2015 by EOL − Aarongunnar (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − MBG (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − MBG (cc-by-nc-sa)

Flower

Taken Jun 12, 2022 by Jan Unruh (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 12, 2022 by Jan Unruh (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 12, 2022 by Jan Unruh (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2020 by edie Mitchell (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 4, 2019 by Catherine Philipona (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − MBG (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3032681)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:791398-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Heuchera richardsonii R. Br.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth