Heuchera is a versatile perennial, with attractive foliage and bell-shaped flowers. Also known as coral bells, they offer an array of colors and forms, multi-seasonal interest and long bloom time.
Is Heuchera a perennial or annual?
Heuchera is a versatile perennial, with attractive foliage and bell-shaped flowers. Also known as coral bells, they offer an array of colors and forms, multi-seasonal interest and long bloom time. Grow them in a shade garden or in pots.
Where do Heuchera bells grow?
Coral bells and foamy bells have become very popular with native plant enthusiasts because they are attractive and easy to grow. Heuchera are native to North America from Florida west to California and north into southern Canada.
What is the difference between Heuchera Marmalade and coral bells?
Heuchera 'Marmalade': Another frilly varietal, the leaves on this version appear in shades ranging from umber to deep sienna. While coral bells don't need much maintenance, you can cut back the entire flower stalk after flowering to put the plant's energy into growing more leaves.
What is the botanical name for coral bells?
How to Grow Coral Bells Botanical Name Heuchera Flower Color Red, white, coral, pink, orange Hardiness Zones 4–8 (USDA) Native Area North America Toxicity 7 more rows ...
Are all Heuchera coral bells?
Crevice alumrootHeuchera sanguineaHeuchera villosaHeuchera americanaHeuchera maximaHeuchera elegansCoral bells/Lower classifications
Why is Heuchera called coral bells?
The oldest heucheras were commonly called "Coral Bells" since they had and have red/pink/coral flowers. Most of the newer ones, bred from separate native species, have cream-colored blooms. They all bloom in late spring on tall stems that rise from the center of the plant.
Does Heuchera like sun or shade?
Heucheras are happiest growing in partial shade or morning sun, although in the northern half of the country most of them will also grow in full sun. Dark-leaved varieties such as Palace Purple are usually the most sun-tolerant. One thing heucheras do not like is soggy soil.
What are the different varieties of coral bells?
Rock the Coral Bells: Heuchera VarietiesWatermelon Heuchera. 'Carnival Watermelon' is named after its dazzling bronze-green foliage and pink undersides.Wake Up and Smell the Heuchera. ... Silver Streak. ... 'Spice' Up Your Life. ... 'Carnival Limeade' ... Stay Golden. ... Plum Crazy! ... 'Carnival Rose Granita'More items...
How many years do coral bells last?
around three to four yearsCoral Bells are a perennial that live only around three to four years. However, as they age, they become stronger and more vibrant instead of weaker and smaller like some plants.
What is the common name for Heuchera?
coral bellsHeuchera americana, commonly called coral bells or alumroot, is a clump-forming Missouri native perennial which occurs in somewhat dryish locations in rocky open woodlands and along ledges and crevices of bluffs.
Should you cut flowers off Heuchera?
No real pruning is required – simply snip out any dead or tatty leaves and faded flower stems. To keep the clumps looking their best, you can cut out any dead or damaged leaves at the base of their stems at any time of year.
Where is the best place to plant heucheras?
dappled shadeMost heucheras do best in dappled shade. Plant them in moist but well-drained soil, or in a loam-base compost if growing in pots. In summer, feed fortnightly with a tomato feed and keep out of direct sun.
Do heucheras dieback in winter?
Are heuchera evergreen plants? Heuchera is an evergreen perennial plant. They retain the majority of their foliage throughout the winter months, meaning all you have to do in the springtime is some minor maintenance clearing up any dead leaves.
How many different varieties of coral bells are there?
The genus Heuchera consists of 35 to 50 species (depending on who you ask) that are all native to North America.
Should I cut back coral bells in the fall?
Whether coral bells are evergreen or not in your zone, we don't suggest cutting them back in late fall. Why? Their foliage protects their crown through the winter. All you have to do for another year of vibrant color is tidy the plant up in spring!
Should Heuchera be cut back?
Heucheras: Do not cut back. The semi-evergreen growth protects the plants from the temperature changes and accompanying heaving common in shallow rooted plants. Peonies, Herbaceous: Cut back to the ground after the foliage dies.
What is the scientific name for coral bells?
HeucheraCoral bells / Scientific name
Is Alumroot the same as coral bells?
Hundreds of varieties of colorful coral bells (Heuchera), also known as alum root, can be found in landscapes across the country. Their unique leaf shape, coloration, and bell-shaped flowers prompted this surge in popularity.
What happens to coral bells in winter?
As long as the temperature is above 45 degrees, the plant will be safe. Coral Bells may go dormant during the winter, but if there is enough light and the temperature is warm enough, the plant may continue to grow.
What animal eats coral bells?
Black Vine Weevil At just under 1/2 inch long, and black with an obvious snout, black vine weevils (Otiorhynchus sulcatus) are easy to recognize. These flightless insects feed on coral bells, causing holes and jagged margins on the edges of the leaves.
What is a Heuchera bell?
Heuchera – Coral Bells. Coral bells are a wonderful addition to a partly shady landscape planting. They come in an array of foliar hues that will complement most any landscape color scheme. Coral bells (genus Heuchera) are sometimes known as alumroots, and there are many species that are native to North America.
What is the best plant for heat tolerance?
Two excellent cultivars known for their heat tolerance are ‘Caramel’ and ‘Citronelle’. Many new cultivars of coral bells are now available, which are hybrids of numerous Heuchera species. ‘Caramel’ is a very heat tolerant coral bells with peachy apricot leaves that grows well in Southern gardens.
How to contact HGIC?
If this document didn’t answer your questions, please contact HGIC at [email protected] or 1-888-656-9988.
Is Heuchera villosa heat tolerant?
Some hybrid cultivars seen for sale on-line may not be as heat tolerant as those that are typically found in local Southern nurseries. The more heat tolerant cultivars often have Heuchera villosa in their parentage, which confers heat tolerance. Two excellent cultivars known for their heat tolerance are ‘Caramel’ and ‘Citronelle’.
Where are coral bells native to?
Coral bells (genus Heuchera) are sometimes known as alumroots, and there are many species that are native to North America.
Do coral bells like shade?
Amend landscape soil with compost or organic matter to improve drainage, as coral bells do not tolerate heavy, poorly drained soils. In the South, these perennials grow best in partial shade, preferring morning sunlight and afternoon shade.
Do coral bells grow well in containers?
In addition, coral bells will grow very well in large containers. They combine well with many native wildflowers and ferns, and with such a selection of foliar colors, it is easy to find choices whose colors blend with most any other perennial flowers.
What is a Heuchera bell?
Heuchera - The Ultimate Guide to Coral Bells from Proven Winners ®. Heuchera - The Ultimate Guide to Coral Bells from Proven Winners. ®. Heuchera is a versatile perennial, with attractive foliage and bell-shaped flowers. Also known as coral bells, they offer an array of colors and forms, multi-seasonal interest and long bloom time.
What is a primo coral bell?
Primo ® coral bells are larger and make showy specimens in containers, and pair easily with hostas and other part shade loving plants in the landscape. Primo varieties are well-suited to climates with hot, humid summers but thrive all across North America.
What kind of soil do coral bells like?
Soil: Heuchera does best in rich well-draining soil , but is tolerant of clay or rocky soils and salt. If you have heavy clay garden soil, amend it to improve the drainage before planting your new coral bells or plant them in a raised bed.
What is a primo ice?
Primo ® ‘Peachberry Ice’ has striking ruffled apricot-orange leaves with pink under sides. Bright new growth mellows in summer to complement the cream flowers. Use this low spreader as a groundcover to illuminate shady woodland borders.
How much sun does a coral bell need?
The ideal conditions for coral bells is part shade, meaning 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day , and out of the way of scorching afternoon sun. However, heuchera plants will grow in any amount of sunlight, including full sun, as long as you water well.
How many types of Heuchera are there?
Buy heuchera plants - Browse 22 types of heuchera and have them shipped right to your door
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How much sun does Heuchera need?
A light open woodland or light shade to part sun spot is perfect. In North Carolina, a site with 3 to 5 hours of dappled sunlight per day is perfect. Some Heuchera can tolerate full sun, especially in northern states as long as the soil doesn't remain bone dry for too long. Good air movement is important to keep down funal diseases.
How long do Heucheras last?
The only downside to Heuchera is that they are short-lived, unless they are divided every 3-4 years as the crown becomes woody. Unlike hosta and good wine, heucheras do not get better with age.
Why is Heuchera x Heucherella important?
The attractive foliage of Heuchera and x Heucherella is very valuable to garden designers because it provides a season-long splash of color. Colorful foliage is much more valuable in garden design than flower color because flowers are often short-lived.
What is a good companion for Heuchera?
Some good companions for Heuchera and x Heucherella include carex, ferns, hosta, and epimedium.
What is alum root?
The latter name refers to the fact that the tannin-rich, astringent roots can be used like alum in the pickling process. The roots are also used as medicine to shrink tissues in those with nose bleeds, sore throats, ulcers, and piles. Heuchera is closely related to tiarella (foam flower), and the two genera have been crossed to create the intergeneric hybrid x heucherella, to which we give the common name " foamy bells ". Coral bells and foamy bells have become very popular with native plant enthusiasts because they are attractive and easy to grow.
How long does it take for Heuchera to germinate?
The seed can be collected and sown immediately. Germination will occur in 30 days and the seedlings will be ready to pot up by fall.
When was Heuchera Americana discovered?
Heuchera americana was discovered by the first American colonists and brought into European gardens in the 1600s. By the 1800s European gardeners were also growing Heuchera richardsonii, Heuchera cylindrica, and Heuchera villosa. As is so often the case, the first breeders of this native American gem in the late 19th and early 20th century were Europeans. Among the earliest breeders was Emile Lemoine of France who was active from the 1890s until World War I. He primarily worked with crosses of Heuchera sanguinea and Heuchera americana.
What are the different types of coral bells?
There are several different varieties of coral bells, and the most notable differences between them can be seen in their color variety. They include: 1 Heuchera 'Autumn Leaves': As hinted at by its name, the leaves on this varietal change color through the seasons, from red to caramel to ruby. 2 Heuchera 'Chocolate Ruffles': This varietal has ruffled leaves with rich chocolaty color on the top and deep burgundy on the bottom. 3 Heuchera 'Green Spice': This hardy varietal has large green leaves that are veined in maroon. 4 Heuchera 'Marmalade': Another frilly varietal, the leaves on this version appear in shades ranging from umber to deep sienna.
How hardy are coral bells?
Most coral bells are hardy in USDA hardiness zones four through eight, although exact hardiness does depend on the variety you're growing. In cold areas, coral bells crowns can heave above the soil line in the winter. Winter mulching will help prevent the freezing/thawing cycle that pushes the plants up, and you should check periodically to make sure the roots are not exposed.
What is a Heuchera green spice?
Heuchera 'Green Spice': This hardy varietal has large green leaves that are veined in maroon.
Why are my coral bells scorching?
Their color can become washed out if they're kept in full sun, and too much light can cause their leaves to scorch. Keep in mind, coral bells planted in damp shade can be prone to fungal diseases—if your plants start having problems, it's best to move them to a drier site. 1.
How long does it take for coral bells to germinate?
You can also start seeds indoors a couple of months before you plan to transplant. Coral bells seeds take two to eight weeks to germinate. Once established, harden off the plants for 10 days, then transplant the seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.
How to grow coral bells from seed?
When starting seed, sprinkle the seed on the surface of the soil in late fall or early spring , making sure not to cover the seed as they need light to germinate. You can also start seeds indoors a couple of months before you plan to transplant. Coral bells seeds take two to eight weeks to germinate.
What color are coral bells?
Coral bells make wonderful edging plants and put on a show when planted in groups. Their foliage is vibrant and saturated and is great for playing up the colors of nearby flowers in the garden—darker purple leaves can make yellow flowers glow, while butterscotch-colored leaves can bring out the tones of simple green leaves.
