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Description:
Heuchera Plum Pudding is a stunning evergreen perennial plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. It is a hybrid of Heuchera villosa and Heuchera micrantha, developed in the United States. The plant is highly valued for its attractive foliage, which features deep purple and silver leaves with white veins. The leaves are deeply lobed and resemble a plum pudding, hence its name. The plant produces delicate, tiny pink flowers on tall spikes that rise above the foliage in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information:
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Heuchera |
Appearance:
Heuchera Plum Pudding is a low-maintenance plant that grows up to 1 foot tall and spreads up to 2 feet wide. The plant has a mounded habit and forms a dense clump of foliage. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a unique plum color with silver veins. The leaves are semi-evergreen, meaning they remain on the plant throughout the winter season. The plant produces delicate pink flowers on tall spikes that rise above the foliage in late spring to early summer. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide:
Heuchera Plum Pudding is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and requires regular watering during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and foliage color.Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost to improve drainage and soil fertility.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some morning sun but requires protection from hot afternoon sun.Hardiness Zones: Heuchera Plum Pudding is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases:
Heuchera Plum Pudding is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust and powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions. To prevent these diseases, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. The plant may also attract slugs and snails, which can be controlled with slug bait or by handpicking.
Habitat:
Heuchera Plum Pudding is native to North America and is commonly found in woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade. It can be grown in containers, rock gardens, borders, and woodland gardens.
Question and Answer:
Q: Is Heuchera Plum Pudding deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Heuchera Plum Pudding is deer-resistant due to its strong fragrance and bitter taste.Q: Can Heuchera Plum Pudding tolerate drought?
A: No, Heuchera Plum Pudding prefers moist soil and requires regular watering during the growing season.Q: How often should I fertilize Heuchera Plum Pudding?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and foliage color.Q: Can I propagate Heuchera Plum Pudding?
A: Yes, Heuchera Plum Pudding can be propagated by division in early spring or late summer.
Related Plants:
Here are some related plants to Heuchera Plum Pudding:- Heuchera ‘Caramel’- Heuchera ‘Obsidian’- Heuchera ‘Marmalade’- Heuchera ‘Green Spice’- Heuchera ‘Midnight Rose’
References:
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Heuchera ‘Plum Pudding’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e114- University of Illinois Extension. (n.d.). Coral Bells. Retrieved from https://extension.illinois.edu/perennials/heuchera.cfm- Walters Gardens. (n.d.). Heuchera ‘Plum Pudding’. Retrieved from https://www.waltersgardens.com/plants/heuchera-plum-pudding/
