The Plant Guide

Browse the Full Plant Guide

Eastern foam flower

Tiarella cordifolia

tee-ar-EL-lah kor-dih-FOE-lee-ah Audio

This native North American species has pale green heart-shaped leaves which develop bronze highlights in the autumn. In summer, it produces a profusion of starry white flowers on 4- to 12-inch spikes. It self-sows freely.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsTiarellas are at home in moist woodland environments. In the garden they make wonderful carpets of intricate leaves in a variety of shapes and with distinct markings. For a long period from spring into summer, the profusion of foamy flowers can be appreciated up close or from a distance. Grow eastern foam flower as a groundcover or edger in a shady border or woodland garden. It is a great foil to early spring bulbs.

CareProvide moist, rich soil in part to full shade.

PropagationSow seed as soon as ripe or in a cold frame in the spring. Divide the rhizomes in spring.

ProblemsRust, powdery mildew, slugs, weevils

  • Genus : Tiarella
  • Zones : 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Plant Width : 6 to 12 inches
  • Plant Height : 6 to 12 inches
  • Moisture : Adaptable
  • Bloom Time : Early Spring, Late Spring, Spring
  • Growth Rate : Fast
  • Uses : Ground Covers, Shade
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Light : Partial Shade to Full Shade
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Characteristics : Self Seeds
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
  • Flower Color : White

Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members

Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.

Start Free Trial

Related Plants

Related Articles

More From the Plant Guide

Winter Interest

Partial Shade

Browse the Full Plant Guide