Press & Articles

April / May 2009

Heuchera

Coral Bells

If I had to pick a favorite perennial it would have to be Heuchera or more commonly known as “Coral Bells”. There are many reasons why Heuchera remain my favorite perennial year after year.

There are many varieties and colors to choose from. I have found 37 different varieties and I’m sure there are a few more. From the gold leaf ‘Amber Waves’, peach leaf ‘Georgia Peach’, purple leaf ‘Purple Palace’, black leaf ‘Black Out’, and the green leaf varieties such as ‘Bressingham Mix’.

Heuchera is a very showy plant with a thick body and “bell” like blossoms that extend up a vertical branch. The heuchera bell-shaped blossoms flutter gently in the wind. Heuchera has a dainty appearance but is a tough and resilient plant. The blossoms of the heuchera are a sight to see when planted in masses. I have seen some varieties bloom from spring through fall, providing a very long show. Heuchera works well planted as an accent within a bed or pot too.

Most varieties of Heuchera can be describe as hardy. We have seen Heuchera survive hard freezes during the winter and go on to survive the hottest weeks of summer.

Common Name:

Alum Root, Coral Bells, Rock Geranium

Botanical Name:

Heauchera micrantha 'Palace Purple'

Type:

Perennial

Soil Preference:

Tolerates drought and will grow in moist soil. Prefers well-drained, loamy or sandy soil with a neutral (7.0) pH.

Light Requirements:

Sun to partial shade

 

Attributes:

1991 perennial plant of the year by the Perennial Plant Association. Best used as a border plant, specimen or ground cover.

Pests:

Japanese beetles, Root and Vine Weevils

Diseases:

Anthracnose, Grey Mold, Bacterial Leaf Spot