Tiarella trifoliata

Common Names

Three-Leaf Foamflower, Foamflower, Laceflower, Sugar-Scoop, Simple-Leaved Foamflower

Summary

Foamflower, Tiarella trifoliata, is a rhizomatous perennial native to moist woods and along streambanks of western North America from Alaska to California and east to Montana, forming clumps with basal leaves on long stalks that are trifoliate or palmately lobed, and bearing tiny white star-shaped flowers in elongate clusters on erect stems. Fruits are capsules that split open to reveal smooth, shiny black seeds.

Typically reaching about 8–14 inches in height, it prefers deep shade to partial shade and moist to wet, well-drained soils rich in organic matter; propagation occurs by seed or division; commonly grown in containers, as a groundcover, or as a lawn alternative; attracts honey bees and other pollinators; not of conservation concern; varieties recognized include var. trifoliata, var. laciniata, and var. unifoliata.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

8-14 inches

Spread

4.5-12 inches

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade, with a range from partial shade to full shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained, rich soil that is naturally fertile or amended with organic matter.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Bloom Color

Palest pink, Pink and White, White

Bloom Time

Spring through Fall

Foliage Color

Soft green, White

Leaf Lifecycle

Other

Growth Rate

Slow growth; tends to self-sow rather than rapid underground spread.

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, and Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds and Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees and other pollinators