Learning to Grow: Coral bells – leaves of many colors

Coral bells, or Heuchera, are perennials popular for their great assortment of leaf colors. Although named for the flower, coral bells are most frequently grown for their year-round foliage color as a contrast to the predominant green leaves in most flower gardens.

New varieties with a wide range of leaf colors and textures are introduced each year. The foliage of this “semi-evergreen” plant was once only green but new cultivars produce leaf colors of bronze, copper, caramel, olive, red and purple, some with silvery streaking and burgundy undersides. Individual leaves may be lobed, wavy or ruffled and in a variety of sizes.

In the summer, long lasting blooms appear on tall spikes and consist of small bell-shaped flowers. They range in color from white to magenta red. Coral bells retain leaves and leaf color well into winter, giving them the semi-evergreen appearance.

Heuchera has been cross bred with the plant species Tiarella (foamflower), producing plants known as Heucherellas (foamy bells) providing yet more variety in leaf color and shape.

Coral bells grow from thick, shallow roots in a mound, and many reach 12 to 18 inches in height. They prefer light shade but some newer cultivars are more tolerant of heat and morning sun. Coral bells thrive in an even supply of moisture in well-drained, rich soil. They do not tolerate having soggy roots. The plant may become large and woody over time, requiring that it be divided during the spring.

The shallow roots allow the plant to heave out of the ground during freeze-thaw cycles in winter. To prevent loss of the plant, the addition of two to three inches of mulch around the plants will protect the roots after the winter freeze.

The Chicago Botanic Garden recommends these top performing coral bells: Heuchera Molly Bush, Heuchera sanguinea White Cloud, Heuchera Montrose Ruby, Heuchera Cappuchino, Heuchera Red Prince, and Heuchera Coral Cloud. Look for these and other coral bells varieties, and enjoy mixing them in with green-foliaged plants to add a splash of rich colors to the garden.

Darlie Simerson is a University of Illinois Extension master gardener for Kane County. The “Learning to Grow” column runs weekly during warmer months of the year. Call the extension office at 630-584-6166 for more information. Feedback on this column can be sent to editorial@kcchronicle.com.