The scientific name is Heuchera but the more common names are Alum Root, Coral Bells, and Rock Geranium.
Heucheras are mounding ground hugging perennials that normally do not get larger than 12 inches high and 12 inches wide. They are native to North America although only the species Heuchera Americana is commonly used for gardening and breeding purposes.
These plants come in almost every possible color. They come in green, lime green, red, burgundy, purple, and black. Often the Heucheras come with multi colored leaves.
Heuchera plants bloom from June to August and if they are deadheaded the bloom time can be extended somewhat.
As are many other native plants Heucheras are drought tolerant perennials. They like sandy and loamy soils but can be grown in clay if it drains well and has been amended with organic material. They can be grown in poorer soils as long as they are fertilized occasionally.
These are versatile plants when it comes to their light requirements. They can be grown from full sun to full shade depending on the variety. Heuchera plants dislike extreme heat and should be planted in more shade the hotter the climate that they are being grown in is.
Pests of Heuchera include Japanese Beetles, Root Weevils, Vine Weevils, deer, and groundhogs. Diseases of Heuchera include Anthracnose, Gray Mold, Bacterial Leaf Spot.
Propagation of Heuchera can be done by seed or division. As with most other garden plant the hybrids are less likely to set viable seed and when you do get seed don’t expect the plant you get from it to look like the variety you got the seed from.
Heuchera plants should be divided every 3 or 4 years to combat the issue of the center of the plant dying off. Spring cleanup simply entails removing any dead foliage and replanting if the plant has heaved out of the soil. Mulching Heuchera can help protect them from winter heaving.
Shade Companions include Hosta, Astilbe, Ferns, and Bleeding Heart
Sun Companions include Iris, Campanula, Columbine, Daylily, Phlox, and Sun Loving Hostas
This is a smaller perennial plant that should be used as a border plant. It’s beautiful foliage and bright colors can make it an asset to any garden.
Heuchera Species
Heuchera Varieties
Heuchera by Color
Photo courtesy of Terra Nova
