Heuchera - Coral Bells

Heuchera, commonly known as Coral Bells, is a hardy perennial treasured for its colourful foliage and delicate sprays of bell-shaped flowers. Available in shades ranging from lime green and amber to burgundy, purple and almost black, it brings year-round interest to borders, containers and shady corners. We love Heuchera for its versatility, compact habit and easy-going nature.

Origin

Heuchera is native to North America, where different species grow naturally in woodlands, rocky areas and mountainous regions. The many varieties found in garden centres today have been specially bred for their striking leaf colours, attractive flowers and reliable garden performance.

Care Guide

• Position: Plant in partial shade or dappled sunlight. Many darker-leaved varieties tolerate more sun, while pale, golden and lime-green varieties usually benefit from protection against strong afternoon sunshine.
• Watering: Keep the soil lightly and consistently moist while the plant becomes established. Mature plants tolerate brief dry spells, but they perform best when not allowed to dry out completely.
• Soil: Choose fertile, well-drained soil. Heuchera dislikes waterlogged ground, particularly during winter, so improve heavy clay with organic matter and grit before planting.
• Planting depth: Keep the crown—the point where the leaves meet the roots—level with or slightly above the soil surface. Planting too deeply can encourage crown rot.
• Containers: Heuchera grows beautifully in pots. Use peat-free, free-draining multipurpose compost and ensure the container has adequate drainage holes.
• Feeding: Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring. Container-grown plants may also benefit from a diluted liquid feed every four to six weeks during the growing season.
• Flowering: Slender stems carrying small bell-shaped flowers usually appear from late spring through summer. The blooms are attractive to bees and other pollinating insects.
• Deadheading: Remove faded flower stems at the base to keep the plant tidy and encourage further flowering.
• Pruning: Remove tired, damaged or dead leaves in late winter or early spring, taking care not to damage the central crown.
• Winter care: Most Heuchera varieties are hardy in the UK. Protect container-grown plants from prolonged waterlogging and severe frost by raising pots onto feet or moving them to a sheltered position.
• Dividing: Divide congested plants every three to four years in spring or early autumn. This refreshes older plants and gives you healthy new sections to replant.
• Common problems: Vine weevil grubs can damage the roots, particularly in containers. Watch for notched leaf edges or sudden wilting. Crown rot may occur when the plant is set too deeply or kept in poorly drained soil.

Pet Safety

• Generally considered pet-safe: Heuchera is regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
• Eating a large amount of any plant material may still cause mild digestive upset.
• Avoid using pesticides, slug treatments or fertilisers in areas accessible to pets unless the products are clearly labelled as pet-safe.
• Recently applied composts and feeds may attract curious animals, so supervise pets around newly planted containers and borders.
• If your pet eats a substantial amount or develops unusual symptoms, contact your veterinary practice for advice.

Our Plant Shop Tip

The key to a happy Heuchera is keeping its crown above wet soil. Provide good drainage and remove any old foliage in spring. Combine several contrasting varieties for a colourful display that remains attractive long after summer flowers have faded.

Sold without a decorative pot, colour and size may vary slightly.

Local plant delivery or collection available in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.