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Coral Bells

Heuchera

The Kaleidoscope of the Shade: Painting Your Garden with Heuchera


The Snapshot

  • Common Name: Coral Bells, Alumroot

  • Scientific Name: Heuchera spp. (Many stunning cultivars available!)

  • Origin: North American Native

  • Hardiness: Zones 4–9

  • The "Vibe": Low-maintenance luxury; the ultimate "jewelry" for a shady corner.

Why We Love It

If flowers are the stars of the garden, Heuchera is the stage, the lighting, and the costume design all in one. While they do produce airy, wand-like flowers (which hummingbirds adore!), they are prized primarily for their spectacular foliage. From deep obsidian purples and lime greens to burnt oranges and silver-veined burgundies, there is a Heuchera for every color palette.


Ecosystem & Wildlife Impact

  • Hummingbird Magnet: The tiny, bell-shaped flowers that rise above the foliage in late spring are a primary nectar source for hummingbirds.

  • Early Pollinators: They provide an important food source for small native bees early in the season.

  • Ground Cover: Their mounding habit provides cool, moist shelter for beneficial garden insects and toads.

Perfect Pairings (Companion Plants)

  • For Texture: Combine the broad leaves of Heuchera with the delicate, lacy fronds of Maidenhair Ferns or Japanese Painted Ferns.

  • For Contrast: Plant lime-green varieties next to deep blue Hostas for a high-contrast "glow" in dark corners.

  • The Classic Mix: They look stunning tucked around the base of Bleeding Hearts (Lamprocapnos spectabilis) or Astilbe.

Gardener Stories


Testimonial

"I have a dry, shady spot under an old oak tree where nothing grew. I planted a 'Palace Purple' Heuchera three years ago, and it has doubled in size. It’s the first thing people notice in my garden!"

— Leo M., Urban Gardener


A Growing Story: The "Living Sunset"

A customer once came in looking for flowers to brighten a North-facing porch. We suggested a mix of 'Caramel' and 'Berry Smoothie' Heuchera. She came back months later and told us that even on the greyest, rainiest days, her containers looked like they were caught in a permanent sunset. It reminded us that you don't always need petals to bring light to a dark space!

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