Description
Heuchera (Coral Bells) HEW-kur-uh
Heucheras, also known as coral bells or alum root, are herbaceous shade perennials native to America known primarily for their beautiful, robust foliage. New cultivars and hybrids are being introduced every year, 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. 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.
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 and astilbe. Hosta, impatiens, ferns and caladiums are other natural companions.
An added bonus for planting heuchera? Hummingbirds often visit the delicate flowers!
