Heartleaf Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia)

Heartleaf Foamflower

Tiarella cordifolia

Frothy white blooms carpet shade like cloud fragments. Low-growing perennial groundcover; common name: foamflower.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in bright indirect shade or dappled sunlight; avoid harsh midday direct sun that may scorch foliage
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging
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Temperature Extremely cold-hardy to -30°C; prefers cool temperate conditions, avoid prolonged heat above 27°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Heart-shaped, serrated margins, semi-evergreen with bronze winter tints
  • Flower: Slender upright spikes bearing tiny, frothy white (rare pale pink) star-shaped blooms
  • Stem: Thin, green flowering stems; creeping rhizomatous growth habit for groundcover spread
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Fertilization

Apply diluted organic feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to prioritize flowering over foliage growth

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support bloom development
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower spikes to maintain a neat appearance
  • Trim back damaged or browning foliage in early spring
  • Thin overcrowded rhizomes every 2–3 years to improve airflow and growth vigor
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes delicate beauty and resilience in low-light garden spaces

Usage: Shade garden groundcover; container planting for indoor shaded areas; cut flower filler