Heuchera (Coral Bells)

Native perennial • Shade-tolerant foliage plant

Heuchera are woodland perennials known for colorful foliage and delicate pollinator-friendly blooms. They’re extremely versatile and pair well with native woodland species in part shade landscapes.

 Light

Best light:

• Morning sun + afternoon shade
  
  

• Dappled woodland shade
  
  

• Tolerates full shade, but foliage color may soften
  
  

Avoid harsh afternoon sun in summer, which can scorch leaves.

Water

Keep soil consistently moist, especially during the first growing season.

Rules of thumb:

• Water deeply, not shallow sprinkles
  
  

• Allow the top inch to dry slightly between watering
  
  

• Never waterlog the crown
  
  

Drought tolerance improves once established.

 Soil

Prefers loose, well-draining soil with organic matter.

Best mix:

• compost + native soil
  
  

• or good woodland loam
  
  

Avoid:

• heavy clay without amendment
  
  

• compacted sites
  
  

• constantly soggy soil
  
  

 Temperature & Zones

• USDA Zones 4–9
  
  

• Heat-tolerant varieties exist, but afternoon protection helps in the deep South
  
  

Winter Behavior & Heaving

Heuchera crowns can occasionally frost-heave in winter.

Prevention:

• fall mulch
  
  

• gently firm soil if roots expose
  
  

• avoid planting too shallow
  
  

•  Growth Habit

• Low mounding foliage
  
  

• Evergreen to semi-evergreen in mild climates
  
  

• Blooms late spring – midsummer
  
  

• Attractive flower stalks attract hummingbirds & native bees
  
  

 Maintenance

Minimal.

• Remove old leaves in spring
  
  

• Trim flower stalks after bloom
  
  

• Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor
  
  

• Bloom & Pollinators

The delicate bells attract:

• native bees
  
  

• small pollinators
  
  

• hummingbirds
  
  

Flowers are a great nectar source in woodland gardens.

Best Locations

• woodland beds
  
  

• shaded foundation planting
  
  

• borders under trees
  
  

• rain-protected shade gardens
  
  

• along paths and patios
  
  

• containers (shade containers love Heuchera)
  
  

Companion Plants

Pairs perfectly with:

• Ferns
  
  

• Hostas
  
  

• Tiarella (Foamflower)
  
  

• Carex
  
  

• Woodland phlox
  
  

• Native spring ephemerals
  
  

• Native Use

Many Heuchera species are native North American woodland plants. They support shade ecosystems and integrate beautifully into native gardens, especially the southeastern woodland palette.

 Planting Notes

Depth:

• Plant crown level with soil surface
  
  

• Do not bury the crown
  
  

Spacing:

• 12–18 inches depending on cultivar
  
  

⚠ Common Problems

Scorched leaves

Too much hot afternoon sun.

Limp foliage

Soil too wet or crown buried too deep.

Poor color

Insufficient light,give gentle morning sun.