Coral Bell or Heuchera

Heucheras may be evergreen or semi-evergreen. Most are cold hardy in zones 4 to 9; some cultivars can tolerate the heat and humidity in zone 11. Graceful, bell-shaped flower clusters open in late spring through summer; the pink, red or white flowers are actually inflorescences, or tiny clusters of blooms, along a flower stalk that can be two to three times as tall as the leaf mound. Plant size ranges from 12 to 36 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide.

In recent years, heucheras have becoming increasingly popular among gardeners, and they deserve the attention they’re getting. New cultivars and hybrids are being introduced regularly, giving us stunning new colors to use in our gardens that range from silver and gold to lime, burgundy, chocolate brown, purple, green and more.

The foliage of these plants is probably their most striking feature. The leaves are often large and heart-shaped or rounded, and many are variegated or ruffled. Because most heucheras are evergreen, they bring year-round interest to the garden, even under a dusting of snow.

Coral bells are versatile in the garden and landscape. Plant in masses, for edging, as a specimen plant and in containers. Use in a mixed perennial border or in a woodland shade garden along with other shade loving perennials such as bleeding heart, iris and astilbe. Hosta, impatiens, ferns and caladiums are other natural companions.

An added bonus for planting heucheras! Hummingbirds often visit the delicate flowers.

Sun Exposure Levels