Tiarella

Foam Flower

Tiarella, commonly called Foamflower, is a charming perennial valued for both its ornamental foliage and its delicate spring blooms. In mid to late spring, airy spikes of tiny white or pale pink flowers rise above deeply lobed, often beautifully veined leaves, creating a soft, foam-like effect. Even after flowering, Tiarella remains attractive thanks to its textured foliage, which may develop rich burgundy tones in cooler weather.

This versatile plant thrives in shaded to partially shaded areas, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and underplanting trees or shrubs. Tiarella spreads slowly by runners, forming neat, low-growing clumps that work well as a groundcover without becoming aggressive. It pairs beautifully with hostas, ferns, and astilbes, adding year-round interest and seasonal blooms with minimal maintenance.

Care Instructions

Planting:
Plant Tiarella in partial to full shade in well-draining, humus-rich soil. Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow for natural spreading.

Watering:
Water regularly, especially during the first growing season. Tiarella prefers consistently moist soil but does not tolerate standing water.

Pruning:
Remove spent flower stems after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance. Trim damaged or old foliage in early spring to encourage fresh growth.

Pest Control:
Tiarella is largely pest-free. Occasionally, slugs may be present in damp conditions; use organic slug deterrents if needed.

Soil Tips:
Prefers rich, organic soil with good moisture retention. Amend soil with compost or leaf mold to improve fertility and structure. Mulching helps conserve moisture and protect shallow roots.