Heuchera

Every time I look at our sales figures for garden plants, I see Heuchera ranked high among them. The coral bells have become a much-loved garden plant. Walking through a nursery amidst colourful fields of Heuchera, I can’t help but be enthusiastic about so much natural beauty. It’s been the dedication of breeders, making numerous crosses, that have created strong and versatile must-have garden plants within this genus. Keep reading.

The Power of Crossing

Heuchera is a genus of perennial plants that naturally occur in North America, where different species grow in highly diverse conditions. It wasn’t until breeders started crossing species that the varieties we now know as easy-to-care-for garden plants emerged. Many of these plants are hybrids of H. americana, H. micrantha, H. sanguinea, and H. villosa. Not only does this breeding result in increased ornamental value, but it also produces stronger plants that thrive in various soil types.

But it doesn’t stop there! Heuchera has also been successfully crossed with the plant genus Tiarella. The genus that emerges from this is called Heucherella. Heucherella inherits the distinctive leaf colours of Heuchera and the dark leaf markings of Tiarella.

Purple Palace

One of the first successful hybrids is Heuchera Purple Palace. This variety is celebrated for its fantastic colours. The leaves change colour: from olive green, bronze-green to dark purple with a wine-red underside. Did you know that this variety is named after Queen’s Palace in Kew Gardens? This is where the very first plants were cultivated. This variety is still available in the market.

Dividing is Multiplying

There’s a simple way to get more Heucheras in your garden. You can dig up a mature Heuchera in spring, split the plant and root ball in two, and then plant them separately. Not only do you get more Heucheras, but it also stimulates growth.

The use of perennial plants in terrace and balcony arrangements has become increasingly popular in recent years. Just look at how beautiful Heucheras provide form and contrast.

The Attraction of Heuchera

Provides contrast colours in the garden

Can thrive in shade

The leaves change colour

Drought resistant

Most species bloom profusely with graceful flower stems

Care Tips

• Heucheras can be planted in many spots in the garden: shade, partial shade to full sun… everything is possible. (Full sun in dry, warm areas is not recommended)
• Heuchera thrives in well-draining soil.
• A mature adult Heuchera is somewhat drought tolerant, but it’s better to water during dry periods.

Published on: 2 Setembro 2024