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Heuchera, also known as Coral Bells, are a fantastic addition to any garden for a multitude of reasons:
Location:
Planting
Growing and Caring:
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the vibrant beauty and easy care of Heuchera plants in your garden for years to come!
Heuchera, more affectionately known as coral bells or alumroot, is a fantastically versatile and colorful perennial that is native to North America. Here is a rundown of what makes this plant special:
Key Features:
Why Gardeners Love Heuchera:
If you are looking for a plant that provides long-lasting color, texture, and versatility in the garden, Heuchera is an excellent choice!
Heuchera: A Tapestry of Color for Your Garden
With their vibrant foliage and charming blooms, Heuchera, commonly known as coral bells or alumroot, bring a tapestry of color to gardens across North America. These versatile perennials, boasting over 50 native species, offer a stunning array of hues and textures to brighten any landscape.
A Feast for the Eyes:
While prized primarily for their captivating leaves, Heuchera also delight with delicate flowers that flutter in the breeze, attracting butterflies and other pollinators. The blooms, typically appearing in June and lasting throughout the growing season, add a touch of whimsy to the already eye-catching foliage.
Design Versatility:
From edging perennial borders to adding pops of color in group plantings, Heuchera seamlessly integrate into various garden designs. Their vibrant hues, ranging from deep purples and fiery oranges to lime greens and silvery hues, create stunning contrasts and focal points. Lighter varieties particularly shine in lightly shaded gardens, illuminating their surroundings with a gentle glow.
A Legacy of Beauty:
The popularity of Heuchera soared when Heuchera micrantha 'Palace Purple' was named Perennial of the Year in 1991 by the Perennial Plant Association. Since then, countless cultivars have been developed, offering an ever-expanding palette of colors and textures for gardeners to explore.
Embrace the captivating beauty and versatility of Heuchera and let them paint your garden with their vibrant hues.
Heuchera: A Versatile and Colorful Perennial for Any Garden
Heuchera, commonly known as alumroot or coral bells, is a North American native plant with over 50 species. The name "coral bells" comes from the delicate, bell-shaped flowers that rise above the foliage on slender stems. While the original coral bells were terra cotta colored, modern cultivars boast a wide array of leaf colors, including:
Many varieties also feature stunning variegated patterns, adding a subtle and refined beauty to any garden. The foliage of some Heuchera even changes color with the seasons or environment!
Growing Heuchera
These easy-to-grow perennials thrive in a variety of settings, from border fronts and rock gardens to containers. Here are some tips for successful Heuchera cultivation:
Landscaping with Heuchera
Heuchera's versatility makes it a popular choice for various landscaping needs:
Heuchera is also salt-tolerant, making it suitable for coastal gardens or pathways that are salted in winter. Plus, it is deer-resistant and attracts pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds!
Planting and Maintenance
With its vibrant foliage, adaptability, and low-maintenance nature, Heuchera is a fantastic addition to any garden.
Heuchera (commonly known as alumroot or coral bells)
Taxonomy:
Important Notes:
Heuchera plants, with their captivating foliage, are a delight in any garden. Here is a closer look at their morphology:
Roots:
Leaves:
Flowers:
Other Features:
Understanding the morphology of Heuchera can help you appreciate their beauty and diversity. It also helps in selecting the right cultivars for your garden based on their foliage color, size, and flowering characteristics.
Heuchera, also known as coral bells or alumroot, is a popular perennial plant grown for its attractive foliage. Native to North America, Heuchera is a remarkably adaptable plant that can be grown in various garden settings, including borders, rock gardens, and containers. Heuchera also makes good cut flowers, though they only last for about three days. This article provides a comprehensive guide to Heuchera cultivation, covering everything from soil and sunlight requirements to planting, care, pest control, and propagation.
Basic Requirements
Heuchera grows in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9 and is usually evergreen in Zones 7-9. Gardeners in colder climates should be aware that Heuchera can sometimes lay flat in winter winds or heave out of the ground.
Soil Type
Heuchera can grow in alkaline to acid soil but has a slight preference for slightly acidic conditions. It thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. While it can tolerate various soil types, including clay and sandy soil, it is essential to ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot. Amending heavy clay soil with compost or other organic materials can improve drainage and create a more suitable growing environment. For particularly wet conditions, consider planting in raised beds or mounds to further improve drainage. Heuchera prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH level of around 6.0 to 7.0.
Sunlight
While many Heuchera varieties prefer shade, some can tolerate or even thrive in full sun, especially in cooler climates. The ideal condition is 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, preferably in the morning, with protection from the scorching afternoon sun. Darker-leaved Heuchera varieties tend to withstand full sun better than lighter-colored ones. In the Pacific Northwest, most varieties can grow well in full sun. However, if the foliage starts to turn brown with crispy edges, it is a sign of too much sun exposure, and the plant should be moved to a shadier location. Keep in mind that Heuchera can become leggy and less floriferous in full shade.
Water Needs
Water Heuchera regularly after planting to help it establish. Once established, Heuchera is somewhat drought-tolerant but still benefits from regular watering, especially during hot, dry spells. Water deeply every few days when the weather is hot and dry or when the leaves show signs of wilting or curling. Avoid overwatering, as Heuchera does not like wet soil and may not survive the winter in soggy conditions. Water at the base of the plant to prevent leaf scorch and avoid watering in the late evening or at night to prevent foliage diseases.
Heuchera Cultivars
There are hundreds of Heuchera cultivars available, each with unique foliage colors, patterns, and textures. Here are a few popular choices:
Cultivar |
Foliage Color |
Characteristics |
Uses |
'Palace Purple' |
Deep purple |
Ruffled edges, classic variety |
Adds drama to shady borders, contrasts well with lighter-colored plants |
'Caramel' |
Amber |
Caramel hue, compact habit |
Ideal for rock gardens, containers, or edging borders |
'Lime Rickey' |
Chartreuse-green |
Mounding habit, bright foliage |
Adds a pop of color to shady areas, combines well with ferns and hostas |
'Georgia Peach' |
Peachy-orange |
Ruffled edges, warm tones |
Creates a warm glow in mixed borders, complements silver-leaved plants |
'Midnight Rose' |
Dark purple with hot pink markings |
Unique coloration, compact growth |
Adds interest to containers, contrasts well with green foliage |
When selecting Heuchera cultivars, consider the specific needs of each variety, such as sunlight tolerance and water requirements. Some cultivars may be more sensitive to sunlight than others, and some may require more frequent watering.
Planting Heuchera
Spacing and Depth
Space Heuchera plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation. When planting, dig a hole the same depth as the root ball and twice as wide. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. It is important to plant Heuchera at the same soil level as they were in their nursery pots to prevent crown rot or root exposure. Backfill the hole with soil, water thoroughly, and keep the soil consistently moist until the plant establishes. Be aware that Heuchera can experience transplant shock, but with proper care, it will recover and thrive in its new location. When planting, ensure the top of the plant sits 1.5-2" below the surface.
Caring for Heuchera
Fertilizing
Heuchera are light feeders and do not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a thin layer of compost in the spring is usually sufficient. Alternatively, you can drench the plant with a liquid organic fertilizer when it begins to produce new leaves in spring and again in late summer. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Watering
Water Heuchera regularly, especially during the first growing season, to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Once established, Heuchera can tolerate some drought but benefits from deep watering during hot, dry spells. Monitor the soil moisture and water when the top inch feels dry.
Deadheading
Deadheading, or removing spent flower stalks, is not necessary for the plant's health but can improve its appearance and prevent it from directing energy towards seed production. To deadhead, simply snip off the faded flower stalks at the base using pruning shears. In late summer, trim off any old, dried-up leaves to rejuvenate the plant and maintain its appearance.
Pests and Diseases
Heuchera is generally a low-maintenance plant with few pest and disease problems. Slugs or snails do not usually plague it. However, here are some potential issues to watch out for: Pests:
Diseases:
To control pests and diseases, monitor your Heuchera plants regularly and take appropriate measures, such as using insecticidal soap or fungicides, if necessary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are four common mistakes that can harm or even kill your Heuchera:
Container Gardening with Heuchera
Heuchera is well-suited for container gardening. Choose a container with a drainage hole that is a couple of inches wider than the pot the plant came in. Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix that includes organic matter. Container-grown Heuchera may require more frequent watering than those planted in the ground, especially during hot weather.
Propagating Heuchera
Heuchera can be propagated through division or by seed. Division is the most common method and involves separating established clumps into smaller sections. This can be done in spring or fall. To divide Heuchera, dig up the plant, carefully separate the crown into sections with healthy roots, and replant them at the appropriate spacing. Seed propagation is also possible but may not produce plants identical to the parent plant.
Heuchera, with its remarkable versatility and low-maintenance nature, is a rewarding plant to grow, offering a wide array of foliage colors and textures to enhance any garden. By understanding its basic requirements and following the care guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure the successful cultivation of Heuchera and enjoy its beauty for years to come. Whether you are adding a touch of drama to a shady border, creating a vibrant tapestry in a container, or simply enjoying its colorful foliage as a cut flower, Heuchera is sure to become a cherished addition to your garden.
Spring:
Summer:
Fall:
Winter:
General Tips:
By following this calendar and providing consistent care, your Heuchera plants will reward you with their colorful foliage and delicate blooms for many years to come!
The amazing world of Heuchera diversity! It is a bit like daylilies, with wild species as the basis for a huge array of cultivated forms. Here is how it breaks down:
1. Species:
2. Groups (Less Formal in Heuchera):
3. Varieties (Naturally Occurring):
4. Cultivars (The Main Attraction!):
Popular Cultivar Examples:
Heuchera are indeed fabulous for mass plantings! Their colorful foliage can create a tapestry of texture and hues, adding incredible dimension to any landscape. Here is what to keep in mind when choosing Heuchera for a mass planting:
1. Foliage Color and Texture:
2. Light Requirements:
3. Size and Habit:
4. Bloom Time and Flower Color:
5. Vigorous Growth:
6. Maintenance:
Cultivar Suggestions for Mass Planting:
Additional Tips:
With thoughtful planning and the right Heuchera cultivars, you can create a stunning mass planting that will provide year-round interest and color!
Heuchera, commonly known as coral bells, is a genus of roughly 40 species of flowering perennial plants in the saxifrage family. They are all native to North America, where they can be found growing in woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes.
Heuchera plants are known for their attractive foliage, which comes in a wide variety of colors and textures. The leaves are typically rounded or lobed, and they can be green, purple, red, silver, or even black. Some varieties of heuchera also have variegated leaves. The flowers are small and bell-shaped, and they come in shades of pink, white, or red.
Heuchera plants are relatively easy to care for, making them a popular choice for gardeners of all levels. They are tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions and light levels, and they are relatively drought-resistant. Heuchera can be propagated by division or by seed.
There are many different varieties of heuchera to choose from, so you can find one that is perfect for your garden.
Heuchera plants can be used in a variety of ways in the garden. They can be planted in beds and borders, or they can be used as groundcovers. They can also be grown in containers.
If you are looking for a versatile and low-maintenance perennial plant for your garden, heuchera is a great option.
Planting heuchera is a fairly straightforward process, but there are a few key things to keep in mind for a successful outcome:
Season and Timing:
Choosing a Location:
Planting Steps:
Additional Tips:
By following these simple steps and providing appropriate care, you can enjoy the beautiful foliage and charming flowers of your heuchera plants for many years to come!
Taking care of Heuchera in your garden is a breeze! Here are some key tips to keep your coral bells happy and thriving:
Light:
Water:
Soil:
Fertilization:
Heuchera is not a heavy feeder. A light application of compost in spring is sufficient. You can also use a balanced fertilizer with slow-release nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage the plant.
Maintenance:
Additional Tips:
With these simple tips and a little attention, your Heuchera will reward you with stunning foliage and charming flowers for many seasons to come.
Heuchera, though generally hardy, can be a bit sensitive to winter's chill, especially in colder regions. Here is how to give your coral bells the best winter care:
1. Mulch generously:
2. Avoid fall cleanup:
3. Water before the freeze:
4. (Optional) Cut back in early spring:
5. Watch for heaving:
Extra Tips for Colder Climates (Zones 4-5):
By following these tips, you can help your Heuchera survive the winter and emerge healthy and vibrant in the spring, ready to dazzle you with its colorful foliage and charming blooms.
It depends! Heuchera are generally considered semi-evergreen. This means they retain their foliage throughout the year in warmer climates but may lose some or all of their leaves in colder regions.
Here is a more detailed breakdown:
Even if your Heuchera loses some leaves in the winter, do not worry! It is a natural process, and the plant will bounce back with fresh growth in the spring. You can tidy up the plant by removing any tattered or dead leaves in early spring before new growth emerges.
Heuchera plants, also known as coral bells, do attract pollinators, particularly bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds!
While their main draw is their stunning foliage, many Heuchera varieties produce delicate bell-shaped flowers that, although small, pack a punch in the pollinator department. Here is why:
Here are some Heuchera varieties known to be particularly pollinator-friendly:
By planting a variety of Heuchera with different flower colors, sizes, and blooming periods, you can create a pollinator haven in your garden. They will not only add beauty and interest to your space, but also contribute to the health of your local ecosystem by providing food and habitat for vital pollinators.
Remember, even Heuchera varieties without showy flowers can still attract pollinators with their foliage. The leaves provide shelter and a resting spot for these busy insects, making your garden a more welcoming environment.
So, go ahead and add some Heuchera to your garden – you and the pollinators will be glad you did!
Heuchera, also known as coral bells, is a fantastic addition to floral arrangements, offering both vibrant color and interesting textures. Here is why you should consider using them:
Versatility:
Long-lasting:
Heuchera foliage is remarkably long-lasting, staying fresh and vibrant in arrangements for up to 5-6 weeks, sometimes even longer! This makes them a low-maintenance and budget-friendly choice.
Easy to use:
Simply cut stems at an angle with sharp shears. Heuchera readily absorbs water, so no special treatment is needed.
Pairing options:
Heuchera plays well with various flowers and foliage. Try pairing them with roses, lilies, hydrangeas, tulips, ferns, or even ornamental grasses for a dynamic and textured look.
With its versatility, longevity, and ease of use, Heuchera is a valuable asset to any floral designer's toolbox. So, do not hesitate to experiment and unleash your creativity with these colorful and charming plants!
Whether Heuchera is invasive depends largely on the specific species and variety, as well as your local environment. Here is a breakdown:
Generally, not invasive:
Potentially invasive:
Factors to consider:
Tips for responsible planting:
By choosing the right species and varieties and practicing responsible garden management, you can enjoy the beauty of Heuchera without harming your local ecosystem.
The best time to divide heuchera depends on several factors, including your climate, the purpose of division, and the specific variety you are growing. Here is a breakdown to help you decide:
Ideal Timing:
Generally: The most favorable time to divide heuchera is in early spring (March-April) or fall (September-October). During these seasons, temperatures are mild, and the plants are actively growing but have not expended energy on blooming or surviving harsh weather. This gives them ample time to establish and recover before winter or summer heat arrives.
Climate Variations:
Purpose of Division:
Variety Considerations:
Some Heuchera varieties, like 'Caramel' and 'Obsidian,' can be divided even in summer as long as you provide adequate water and shade during the hottest periods. However, consult your specific variety's information for best practices.
Remember:
By considering these factors and choosing the appropriate timing for your specific situation, you can ensure successful division and continued enjoyment of your beautiful heuchera plants.
Heuchera, also known as coral bells, come in a dazzling array of varieties, each with its own unique charm. Choosing the right one for your garden depends on factors like desired foliage color, sun tolerance, and overall size. Here is a glimpse into the diverse world of heuchera:
Color Chameleons:
Textural Delights:
Size Matters:
Beyond the Foliage:
This is just a small sampling of the vast heuchera landscape. Remember to consider your garden's specific needs and desired aesthetic when choosing the perfect variety to bring a touch of magic to your space.
The Heuchera genus boasts a fascinating array of species, each with its own unique characteristics and regional adaptations. While they share some common features, their diversity in foliage color, flower form, and environmental preferences makes them a captivating group for gardeners.
Here is a glimpse into the diverse world of Heuchera species:
Eastern North America:
Western North America:
Southwestern North America:
Factors Contributing to Diversity:
Exploring Heuchera Diversity:
With so many Heuchera species and cultivars available, gardeners have a wealth of options to choose from. When selecting Heuchera for your garden, consider factors such as:
By understanding the diversity of Heuchera species, gardeners can select the perfect plants to add color, texture, and interest to their gardens.
Heuchera hybrids have taken the gardening world by storm, offering an incredible diversity of foliage colors, textures, and flower forms that go far beyond the original species. These hybrids, often bred from crosses between various North American Heuchera species, have revolutionized how we use coral bells in the landscape.
Why Hybrids are So Popular:
Key Parent Species:
Many popular Heuchera hybrids are derived from crosses between these species:
Notable Hybrid Series:
Choosing Heuchera Hybrids:
With so many options available, consider these factors when selecting Heuchera hybrids:
Care Tips for Heuchera Hybrids:
Heuchera hybrids offer endless possibilities for adding color, texture, and interest to the garden. With their wide range of characteristics and adaptability, there is a Heuchera hybrid to suit every gardener's taste and style.
Heuchera americana, commonly known as American alumroot, is a charming native perennial that brings both subtle beauty and hardiness to the garden. Here is a closer look at this North American gem:
Distinctive Features:
Natural Habitat:
Why Gardeners Choose Heuchera americana:
Growing Tips:
Landscaping Ideas:
Heuchera americana is a versatile and undemanding plant that brings a touch of wild beauty to any garden setting.
Heuchera cylindrica, commonly known as poker alumroot or roundleaf alumroot, is a distinctive perennial that brings a touch of wild elegance to gardens. Native to western North America, this species is admired for its unique flower formations and attractive foliage.
Distinctive Features:
Cultivation Preferences:
Reasons to Grow Heuchera cylindrica:
Landscaping Ideas:
Heuchera cylindrica is a unique and versatile perennial that offers distinctive flowers, attractive foliage, and adaptability to a variety of garden conditions. Its low-maintenance nature and ability to attract pollinators make it a valuable addition to any landscape.
Heuchera maxima, commonly known as Island Alum Root, stands out among its Heuchera relatives for its impressive size and striking presence. This evergreen perennial, endemic to the Channel Islands off the coast of California, is a robust and beautiful addition to any garden.
Distinctive Features:
Cultivation Preferences:
Reasons to Grow Heuchera maxima:
Landscaping Ideas:
Heuchera maxima is a standout perennial that offers bold foliage, delicate blooms, and adaptability to a variety of garden conditions. Its impressive size and low-maintenance nature make it a valuable addition to any landscape.
Heuchera micrantha, commonly known as crevice alumroot, is a captivating perennial native to the western United States and Canada. It is prized for its unique foliage and delicate flowers, adding a touch of beauty to rock gardens and woodland settings.
Distinctive Features:
Cultivation:
Uses:
Attracting Wildlife:
Heuchera micrantha attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, adding to the biodiversity of your garden.
Conservation:
While Heuchera micrantha is not currently considered threatened, it is important to protect its natural habitats and populations. Conserving this species helps to maintain the biodiversity of our ecosystems.
In Summary:
Heuchera micrantha is a charming and versatile perennial that brings a touch of beauty to any garden. Its unique foliage, delicate flowers, and adaptability make it a popular choice for adding color and texture to shady areas. Whether planted in a rock garden, border, or container, Heuchera micrantha is sure to delight with its delicate beauty and low-maintenance nature.
Heuchera pubescens, commonly known as downy alumroot, is a captivating perennial that stands out with its velvety foliage and airy blooms. This species, native to the eastern United States, brings a touch of understated elegance to shade gardens.
Distinctive Features:
Cultivation Preferences:
Reasons to Grow Heuchera pubescens:
Landscaping Ideas:
Heuchera pubescens is a charming and versatile perennial that brings a touch of softness and elegance to shade gardens. Its unique foliage, graceful flowers, and adaptability make it a valuable addition to any landscape.
Heuchera pubescens, commonly known as downy alumroot, is a captivating perennial that stands out with its velvety foliage and airy blooms. This species, native to the eastern United States, brings a touch of understated elegance to shade gardens.
Distinctive Features:
Cultivation Preferences:
Reasons to Grow Heuchera pubescens:
Landscaping Ideas:
Heuchera pubescens is a charming and versatile perennial that brings a touch of softness and elegance to shade gardens. Its unique foliage, graceful flowers, and adaptability make it a valuable addition to any landscape.
Heuchera sanguinea, commonly called coral bells, is a beloved perennial known for its vibrant flowers and attractive foliage. Native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, this species adds a touch of Southwestern charm to gardens.
Distinctive Features:
Cultivation Preferences:
Reasons to Grow Heuchera sanguinea:
Landscaping Ideas:
Heuchera sanguinea is a classic garden perennial that offers beauty, adaptability, and low-maintenance charm. Its vibrant flowers and attractive foliage make it a welcome addition to any garden.
Heuchera villosa, often called hairy alumroot, stands out among its Heuchera relatives with its distinct fuzzy texture and impressive heat and humidity tolerance. Native to the southeastern United States, this species thrives in woodland environments and brings a touch of wild charm to gardens.
Distinctive Features:
Cultivation Preferences:
Reasons to Grow Heuchera villosa:
Landscaping Ideas:
Heuchera villosa is a valuable addition to shade gardens, offering unique texture, delicate blooms, and reliable performance in challenging conditions.
Heuchera villosa hybrids are a game-changer for gardeners in hot and humid climates. These tough and beautiful coral bells bring the vibrant colors and textures of Heuchera to regions where other varieties might struggle.
Why Choose Heuchera villosa Hybrids?
Popular Heuchera villosa Hybrids:
Growing Tips for Heuchera villosa Hybrids:
Landscaping Ideas:
If you are gardening in a hot and humid climate, Heuchera villosa hybrids are a fantastic choice for adding color, texture, and long-lasting beauty to your garden. Their resilience and adaptability make them a welcome addition to any landscape.
The Heuchera DOLCE® series is a collection of stunning coral bells hybrids developed by Proven Winners. They are known for their vibrant foliage colors, unique textures, and improved garden performance. Here is a closer look at what makes this series special:
Key Features:
Popular DOLCE® Varieties:
Growing DOLCE® Heuchera:
Landscaping Ideas:
If you are looking for Heuchera with exceptional foliage color, compact growth, and reliable performance, the DOLCE® series is an excellent choice for your garden.
The Heuchera DRESSED UP™ series from Proven Winners is like haute couture for your garden! These coral bells hybrids are designed to bring high fashion flair with their ruffled leaves, unique colors, and compact shapes.
What Makes Them Stand Out:
Star Performers in the DRESSED UP™ Series:
Growing DRESSED UP™ Heuchera:
Design Ideas:
With their ruffled foliage, captivating colors, and easy care, Heuchera DRESSED UP™ series brings a touch of elegance and excitement to any garden setting.
The Heuchera Timeless Collection is a line of coral bells bred specifically for their outstanding flowering performance. While most Heuchera are grown primarily for their colorful foliage, the Timeless series boasts both beautiful leaves and abundant, long-lasting blooms.
Here is what sets them apart:
Popular Varieties in the Timeless Collection:
Growing Tips for the Timeless Collection:
Landscaping Ideas:
If you are looking for Heuchera that offer both beautiful foliage and exceptional flowering performance, the Timeless Collection is a fantastic choice for your garden. They will provide a long-lasting display of color and charm throughout the growing season.
The Primo® Heuchera series, developed by Proven Winners, is known for its vigorous growth, large mounding habits, and intense foliage colors. These coral bells are real standouts in the garden, offering a bold presence and long-lasting appeal.
Here is what makes Primo® Heuchera special:
Popular Primo® Varieties:
Growing Primo® Heuchera:
Landscaping Ideas:
If you are looking for Heuchera that make a statement with their size, color, and vigorous growth, the Primo® series is an excellent choice. They will bring long-lasting beauty and interest to your garden.