289. Small-flowered Alumroot

Small-flowered Alumroot (Heuchera micrantha var. diversifolia  ) is a member of the Saxifrage family and is a common species growing on shallow soiled rock outcrops and cliff faces at Leaning Oaks.  The leaves range from unmarked to intricately patterned with red veining.  Flowers are tiny and white and in racemes. Another commonly used name is `Crevice Alumroot`  Several named forms with purple or red leaves are available in cultivation (cultivars such as ``Palace Purple` and `Molten Fire`) and the species has been used extensively in hybridization programs to develop Heucheras for the garden.  As one might guess from the name, the root is extremely astringent.