A beautiful, shade-loving perennial with colorful foliage and delicate blooms — perfect for woodland borders, containers, and shady garden spots!
For optimal germination rates, initiate seed propagation indoors under controlled conditions—unless the species exhibits a high sensitivity to root disturbance. This approach allows precise regulation of temperature, humidity, and light, improving germination consistency and seedling viability. Do not skip any recommended seed treatments, as they are essential for uniform and successful germination.
Seed Treatment
Cold Stratification:
• Mix seeds with moist sand or peat moss in a sealed plastic bag.
• Refrigerate at 34–40°F (1–4°C) for 4–6 weeks.
• Check weekly — if any seeds start sprouting in the fridge, plant them right away in moist soil.
How to Sow Indoors (Best for Early Blooms)
• When to Start: 8–10 weeks before your last expected frost.
• Containers & Soil: Use small pots or trays with well-draining seed-starting mix.
• Sowing Depth: Surface sow — press seeds gently onto the soil but do not cover them.
• Light: Use grow lights to maintain 12–16 hours of light per day.
• Temperature: Keep at 65–75°F (18–24°C). Use a heat mat to maintain steady temperatures.
• Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
• Humidity: Use a humidity dome or clear cover to maintain consistent moisture during germination. Open the dome BRIEFLY once per day to allow fresh air in and reduce mold risk. Remove the dome entirely once seedlings emerge.
• Germination Time: Usually 3–8 weeks after stratification.
How to Sow Outdoors (Optional)
• When to Sow: In fall or early spring, allowing nature to provide cold stratification.
• Where: A spot with partial to full shade and rich, well-drained soil.
• Sowing Depth: Surface sow and press seeds lightly into the soil — do not bury.
• Moisture: Keep the area consistently moist until seeds sprout.
Growing On
• Watering: Keep evenly moist but not waterlogged.
• Soil: Prefers humus-rich, well-draining soil (pH 5.5–7.0).
• Spacing: Thin or transplant seedlings 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart.
• Light: Thrives in partial to full shade.
• Height: Reaches 12–18 inches tall.
Heuchera americana adds year-round interest to your garden with its vibrant foliage and shade tolerance. Easy to grow and low maintenance!