Heuchera – Fairy Flowers, Alum Root, Coral Bells
Heucheras are among the most desirable of the smaller growing plants. There are many varieties worth growing. Of these, Heuchera sanguinea is most often seen. The plants are compact, bushy and grow in tufts, the flower stems growing 11/2 feet or 2 feet high. The evergreen leaves look like those of a Geranium. From a mass of ornamental foliage rise graceful spikes covered with pendent flowers which assume the size. of Lily of the Valley bells, of a bright coral-crimson color. It blooms about the middle of the Summer. Catalogs list white, creamy, purple and rose-colored varieties. H. americana, resembling the Foam Flowers and the Mitreworts, is a native of our woods.
Where to plant Heuchera
Small clumps of Heucheras are very attractive when planted by themselves among the shrubbery where their dainty bells will not be outshone by other happy flowers. The foliage is tinted with various maroon markings during the Winter and this makes the plants valuable for the borders. The leaves are also used in vases as accompaniments to other flowers, and the sprays of bloom make excellent cut flowers. Heucheras are most at home when planted in the rockery where they become robust and the foliage completely covers the rocks.
Type of soil
Moist, rich loam is the best soil in which to grow them. Although the plants grow for a long time in one place, the larger plants tend to grow weak very soon. These should be removed and planted elsewhere about every two years. They refuse to thrive in stiff, clay soil.
How to grow Heuchera from division
The plants are propagated by division in October, or available. The seedlings are tiny and need not be transplanted until they attain some size.
Information on 75+ Perennials
Heuchera, commonly known as Fairy Flowers, Alum Root, or Coral Bells, is a highly desirable plant, especially for smaller garden spaces. With numerous varieties available, Heucheras offer a range of options to suit different preferences. Among the popular choices, Heuchera sanguinea is frequently encountered. These plants have a compact and bushy growth habit, forming tufts of foliage. The evergreen leaves resemble those of Geraniums, while the graceful flower stems can reach heights of 1.5 to 2 feet. Adorning these stems are pendent flowers, reminiscent of Lily of the Valley bells, with a vibrant coral-crimson hue. This delightful display occurs in mid-summer. Various catalogs feature Heuchera varieties in white, creamy, purple, and rose colors. Another native species, H. americana, bears resemblance to Foam Flowers and Mitreworts, and is often found in woodland areas.
Heucheras can be utilized in various ways to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a garden. Planted in small clumps, they create attractive focal points amidst shrubbery, where their delicate bells can shine without being overshadowed by other showy flowers. The foliage of Heucheras is often adorned with maroon markings during the winter, making them valuable additions to borders. Additionally, their leaves can be used as accompaniments to other cut flowers in vases. The sprays of Heuchera blooms make excellent cut flowers themselves. Rockeries also provide an ideal environment for Heucheras, allowing them to flourish and cover the rocks with their robust foliage.
To ensure successful growth, Heucheras thrive best in moist, rich loam soil. Although these plants can remain in one location for a long time, larger specimens tend to weaken over time. It is advisable to transplant them to new locations every two years to maintain their vitality. Heucheras do not perform well in heavy clayey soil, so it is essential to provide them with well-draining conditions.
When it comes to propagation, Heucheras can be easily propagated through division, preferably in October. Alternatively, they can be grown from seeds, which are initially tiny and do not require immediate transplantation until they have reached a suitable size.
In addition to the information mentioned about Heuchera, let’s explore some other interesting plant species that complement Heucheras in perennial gardens:
Astilbe: Known for its feathery plumes of flowers, Astilbe offers beautiful blooms in various shades of pink, red, and white. This perennial thrives in moist soil and partial shade, making it an excellent companion for Heucheras.
Hellebore: Hellebores, also known as Lenten Roses, are early-blooming perennials that add a touch of elegance to garden beds. They come in an array of colors, including white, pink, purple, and green. Hellebores prefer partial shade and well-draining soil.
Salvia: With their vibrant spikes of flowers, Salvias are popular choices for adding height and color to perennial gardens. They are available in numerous varieties, including both annual and perennial types. Salvia prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Echinacea: Commonly known as Coneflowers, Echinacea plants are native to North America and feature large, daisy-like flowers with prominent cones in the center. They come in various colors, including shades of pink, purple, and white. Echinacea thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Coreopsis: Coreopsis, also called Tickseed, is a cheerful perennial that produces abundant yellow or golden flowers with a daisy-like appearance. They are excellent for attracting pollinators to the garden and are well-suited for sunny locations with well-drained soil.
Geranium: Geraniums, not to be confused with the bedding plants commonly known as “geraniums,” are perennial plants with delicate flowers in shades of pink, purple, blue, and white. They are low-growing and spread easily, making them great ground covers. Geraniums prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Nepeta: Nepeta, or Catmint, is a versatile perennial that offers a profusion of lavender-blue flowers and aromatic foliage. It attracts bees and butterflies to the garden and is known for its long-lasting blooms. Nepeta thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Sedum: Sedums, often referred to as Stonecrop, are drought-tolerant perennials with succulent leaves and clusters of star-shaped flowers in various colors, including pink, yellow, and white. They are excellent choices for rock gardens and thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
Rudbeckia: Rudbeckias, commonly known as Black-Eyed Susans, are vibrant perennials with golden-yellow flowers and dark centers. They add a splash of color to the garden and are attractive to pollinators. Rudbeckias prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Penstemon: Penstemons are showy perennials with tubular flowers that come in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, purple, and white. They are drought-tolerant and attract hummingbirds with their nectar-rich blooms. Penstemons thrive in full sun and well-drained soil.
By incorporating these complementary plants alongside Heucheras, you can create a dynamic and visually appealing perennial garden. Remember to consider their specific sunlight and soil requirements when planning the layout. With their diverse colors, textures, and bloom times, these plants will provide year-round interest and attract a variety of pollinators to your garden.
In conclusion, Heucheras, also known as Fairy Flowers, Alum Root, or Coral Bells, are highly desirable perennials that add charm and beauty to gardens. With their compact growth habit, colorful foliage, and graceful flower spikes, Heucheras make excellent choices for borders, rockeries, or standalone plantings. Pairing them with other complementary perennials such as Astilbe, Hellebore, Salvia, Echinacea, Coreopsis, Geranium, Nepeta, Sedum, Rudbeckia, and Penstemon can further enhance the visual appeal and biodiversity of your garden. So go ahead and explore the wonderful world of Heucheras and their companions, and create a stunning perennial garden that will delight you for years to come.
