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Plant Profiles / Coral bells
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Coral bells
Heuchera hybrids · Heuchera, alumroot
A compact perennial grown for its colourful, ruffled leaves in lime, caramel, purple and near-black, with delicate flower spikes in summer.
Part shadeLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Part shade
ShadeFull sun
Morning sun or dappled shade; darker leaves handle more sun.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Keep evenly moist but not wet.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-25–30°C (-13–86°F)
CoolWarm
Prefers cooler climates.
Growth
Slow, mounding
SlowFast
Grows 20–40 cm.
Soil
Free-draining, rich
LeanRich
Add compost and grit.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Light feed in spring.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
About this plant
Native to North America, heucheras offer foliage colour for shade. They're perfect for mixed pots and edges. They dislike wet feet and hot afternoon sun.
Best spots
Shaded balconies, mixed pots, borders and woodland gardens.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Heuchera hybrids |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Origin | North America |
| Plant type | Evergreen perennial |
| Mature size | 20–40 cm |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| Foliage | Ruffled leaves in many colours |
| Flowers | Small bells on wiry stems |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Division |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Flowering
Divide
Fertilise
FloweringDivideFertilise
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Crown lifting out of soil | Normal with age; replant deeper. |
| Scorched leaves | Too much sun. |
| Rotting | Wet soil. |
| Vine weevil | Grubs eat roots; check pots. |
| Faded colour | Too much shade. |
Common questions
Are they pet safe?
Yes.
Do they flower?
Yes, small bell flowers in summer.
Can they grow in pots?
Yes.
Do they need sun?
Part shade is best.
