Alumroot

There are about 55 species of evergreen and semi-evergreen perennials in this genus, which is N American and Mexican in distribution. Several species are grown as ornamentals, with handsome leaves and delicate flowers that are effective en masse. Heuchera americana was an important healing herb among native N Americans. It was adopted by settlers and listed briefly in the U. S. Pharmacopoeia (1880-82). In the 18th century it had a reputation for curing cancer. Heuchera is named after Johann Heinrich von Heucher (1677-1747), professor of medicine at Wittenberg.

Clump-forming perennial with broadly ovate to heart-shaped, leathery leaves, 5-14cm (2-5½in) long, marbled and veined brown when young. Small, purple-green flowers appear in tall panicles during late spring and early summer.

Common Name:	Alumroot
Other Names:	American Sanicle
Botanical Name:	Heuchera americana
Genus:	Heuchera
Family:	Saxifragaceae
Native Location:	Central and Eastern N America
Cultivation:	Moist, well-drained, neutral soil in sun or partial shade. Shoots may be distorted by leafy gall; leaf nematodes may damage leaves.
Propagation:	By seed sown in spring; by division in autumn
Harvest:	Roots are lifted in autumn and dried for decoctions and powders.
Height:	45cm (18in)
:Width	30cm (12in)
Hardiness:	Z4-9
Parts Used:	Roots
Properties:	A bitter, astringent herb that controls bleeding and discharge, and promotes healing.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for diarrhea, dysentery, and gastric ulcers. Excess irritates the stomach and causes kidney and liver failure. Externally for sores, wounds, sore throat, and vaginal discharge.
Bibliography:	The Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Bown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pp. 234-235