Tiarella
Tiarella spp. (incl. T. cordifolia, T. wherryi)
Tiarella, commonly called Foamflower, is a graceful North American native woodland perennial bearing airy wands of tiny white to pink starry flowers above attractive, often intricately patterned foliage. It symbolizes gentleness, grace, and the quiet beauty of the forest floor.
Saxifragaceae (Saxifrage family)
Spring to early summer (April–June); foliage often attractive year-round
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Cultural Significance
Tiarella's common name, Foamflower, perfectly captures its visual magic — the tiny white flowers massed along delicate wands create the impression of seafoam or light mist drifting through the forest understory. As a woodland native deeply associated with the Appalachian Mountains and Eastern deciduous forests, Tiarella has become an emblem of native shade garden design and the growing movement to bring wild beauty into cultivated spaces. Modern breeding has produced dozens of striking cultivars with dramatically patterned, deeply cut foliage, transforming it into one of the most popular shade perennials in contemporary horticulture.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Partial to full shade; one of the finest flowering plants for deep shade gardens
Water
Consistent moisture preferred; moderately drought-tolerant once established in shade; avoid drying out completely
Soil
Moist, Humus-rich, Well-drained, Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil in partial to full shade
Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in spring or fall to maintain vigor
Running types (T. cordifolia) spread by stolons to form colonies — ideal as a ground cover
Clump-forming types (T. wherryi) are more compact and better for smaller spaces
Pairs beautifully with hostas, ferns, astilbe, and bleeding heart in shade gardens
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Shade and woodland gardens as ground cover
- Underplanting beneath deciduous and evergreen trees
- Shaded border edging and rock garden crevices
- Native plant and naturalized woodland gardens
- Foliage interest throughout the growing season — many cultivars have striking patterned leaves
- Container planting for shaded patios and courtyards
Traditional Uses
- Native American peoples used Tiarella preparations as an eye wash and for digestive complaints
- Leaves were occasionally used in poultices for skin ailments in Appalachian folk medicine
- No significant modern clinical uses; primarily grown as an ornamental
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tiarella
What is tiarella commonly called?
Tiarella is most commonly called Foamflower, a name that describes the frothy, foam-like appearance of its tiny white flowers massed along slender spikes. It is also known as False Miterwort and Coolwort.
Is tiarella a good shade plant?
Yes, Tiarella is one of the finest flowering perennials for shaded gardens. It thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and underplanting beneath trees where few flowering plants flourish.
What does tiarella symbolize?
Tiarella symbolizes gentleness, grace, and quiet beauty. Its soft, airy flower wands evoke delicacy and nurturing warmth, making it a meaningful gift for expressions of gentle affection and comfort.
Does tiarella spread?
It depends on the species. Running types like Tiarella cordifolia spread by stolons to form attractive ground-covering colonies, while clump-forming types like T. wherryi stay more compact. Both can be divided every few years to control spread or propagate new plants.
What is the difference between tiarella and heuchera?
Tiarella and Heuchera (Coral Bells) are closely related members of the Saxifrage family and are often hybridized to create x Heucherella. Tiarella typically has white or pale pink flowers and lobed, often patterned leaves, while Heuchera offers a broader range of flower and foliage colors. Both are excellent shade perennials.
When does tiarella bloom?
Tiarella blooms in spring to early summer, typically from April through June. The airy flower spikes rise above the foliage mound and provide several weeks of delicate bloom, after which the attractive patterned leaves continue to provide ornamental interest through the season.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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