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Description
Heuchera Autumn Leaves is a perennial plant that is native to North America. It is commonly known for its unique foliage that changes colors throughout the year. The leaves of the plant are green in the spring and turn to a deep purple in the summer. In the fall, the leaves turn to a vibrant orange and red color, hence the name “Autumn Leaves”. The plant produces small, delicate flowers on tall stems in the summer, which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Heuchera |
Appearance
The Heuchera Autumn Leaves plant has a compact and mounding habit, growing up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. The leaves of the plant are deeply lobed and have a glossy texture. The foliage has a unique color-changing feature, with green leaves in the spring, deep purple in the summer, and a mix of orange and red in the fall. The flowers of the plant are small and delicate, produced on tall stems that grow up to 18 inches tall. The flowers are usually pink or white in color and bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
The Heuchera Autumn Leaves plant is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the hot and dry summer months.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.
- Hardiness Zones: The Heuchera Autumn Leaves plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Heuchera Autumn Leaves plant is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and crown rot if the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. Spider mites and aphids can also infest the plant, causing damage to the foliage. To prevent these issues, make sure to maintain good air circulation around the plant and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The Heuchera Autumn Leaves plant is native to North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and rocky areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Heuchera Autumn Leaves plant deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is known to be deer-resistant.
Q: How often should I water my Heuchera Autumn Leaves plant?
A: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the hot and dry summer months. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can I propagate the Heuchera Autumn Leaves plant?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through division or by taking stem cuttings in the spring.
Q: What is the best time to plant Heuchera Autumn Leaves?
A: The best time to plant the Heuchera Autumn Leaves plant is in the spring or fall when the temperatures are cooler.
Related Plants
- Heuchera ‘Caramel’
- Heuchera ‘Cherry Cola’
- Heuchera ‘Green Spice’
- Heuchera ‘Obsidian’
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Heuchera ‘Autumn Leaves’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c270
- North Carolina State University Extension. (n.d.). Heuchera. Retrieved from https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/heuchera
- RHS. (n.d.). Heuchera ‘Autumn Leaves’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/92600/Heuchera-Autumn-Leaves/Details
