the last 20 years have resulted in this perennial being moved into a more highly appreciated role in the landscape. The heuchera flowers are relatively dainty on most varieties with a color range from whites to pinks to reds. There are a few cultivars that have a very pale yellow tint. Foliage can vary widely from the 1/2” wide leaves of the Heuchera pulchella to the 11” wide leaves of the Heuchera villosa. Foliage colors can be matte or glossy, hairy or smooth, and can have contrasting veins which change colors with the seasons. Heucheras require well-drained soil. If you’ve had problems with coral bells in the past, most likely
tive perennial is coral bells, but it was also called alum root due to its medicinal qualities. Native Americans used them to stop wounds from bleeding. The stems can be used in a pinch if you cut yourself in the garden. Heuchera americana, an east coast native, was offered in the first American seed catalog published by Bernard M’Mahon in 1804. In the past, heucheras were relegated to a utilitarian role in the landscape as they were useful in shady spots. Not known for having the showy flowers required for Victorian-era gardens, these plants didn’t have the wow factor to grab the color-loving masses. However, breeding advances of
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