Overview
Heuchera (Heuchera spp.), commonly called Coral Bells, is grown primarily for its spectacular foliage in colors ranging from lime green to deep burgundy, bronze, and silver. Heucherella is a hybrid between Heuchera and Tiarella, offering similar foliage with even more intricate leaf markings. We carry 'Green Spice' (silver-veined green), 'Midnight Rose' (dark purple with pink spots), 'Gold Zebra' (Heucherella with gold and chocolate markings), and 'FOREVER Red' (rich deep red). All produce delicate wiry flower stems of tiny bells in late spring and early summer.
Sun & Exposure
- Ideal: Part shade to full shade
- Tolerated: Morning sun with afternoon shade; full sun in cool climates with moisture
- Avoid: Hot, direct afternoon sun — foliage bleaches and plants decline
- Darker-leaved varieties tolerate more sun; lighter/gold varieties prefer more shade
Watering
Prefers moderate, consistent moisture.
- Water regularly, especially during summer heat
- Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings — do not waterlogged
- Mulch to keep roots cool and retain moisture
- More drought tolerant than commonly believed once well established
Soil & Planting
- Well-draining, humus-rich soil
- Slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5–7.0)
- Plant with the crown at or slightly above the soil surface — burying the crown causes rot
- Space 12–18 inches apart; plant in spring or fall
- Excellent in containers
Fertilizing
- Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring
- Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage growth at the expense of vigor and root development
Pruning
- Remove tattered or winter-damaged leaves in early spring
- Deadhead flower scapes after blooming for a tidier appearance (or leave them — birds eat the seeds)
- Divide every 3–4 years in spring when crowns become "heaved" above soil level
Winter Care
Hardy in zones 4–9. Semi-evergreen to evergreen in mild winters. In cold zones, foliage will be damaged but the crown survives. Mulch lightly in zone 4. Important: re-firm any frost-heaved crowns back into the soil in early spring.
Common Issues
Problem
Crown rot
Cause
Planted too deep or poorly drained soil
Problem
Heaving out of soil
Cause
Freeze-thaw cycles; re-firm crown in spring
Problem
Vine weevil grubs
Cause
Check roots if plant wilts suddenly; treat with beneficial nematodes
Problem
Faded foliage color
Cause
Too much or too little light (varies by variety)
Tips
- Provides year-round foliage interest — outstanding in winter containers
- Excellent for shady borders, woodland edges, and mixed containers
- 'Midnight Rose' and 'FOREVER Red' hold color best in part shade
- 'Gold Zebra' (Heucherella) is particularly vigorous and disease resistant
- Deer and rabbit resistant
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does coral bells grow in shade?
A: Yes. Heuchera is one of the best perennials for shade and part shade. Most varieties perform beautifully in dappled light or morning sun with afternoon shade — darker-leaved varieties can even handle more sun than lighter ones.
Q: Does heuchera come back every year in Erie?
A: Yes. Heuchera is reliably perennial in zones 4–9. In Erie (zone 6a/6b) it is very dependable, returning each spring with attractive foliage that often looks good well into winter.
Q: Does heuchera flower?
A: Yes. Heuchera produces delicate wiry stems topped with tiny bell-shaped flowers in late spring and early summer. The flowers are charming but the plant is grown primarily for its spectacular year-round foliage color.